By Nakwam Rose
South Sudan NGO Forum on Tuesday condemned the escalating violence in the country, particularly in Jonglei State.
The forum highlighted recent airstrikes in Fangak County, warning that they endangered innocent civilians and damaged vital infrastructure.
In its statement, the forum lamented the significant loss of civilian lives and stated that access to humanitarian aid and other critical services has been severely interrupted by the violence.
“These attacks have jeopardized the safety of civilians, disrupted essential services, and compelled the suspension of critical humanitarian operations,” the statement read.
The NGO Forum reported at least two airstrikes in Fangak in recent days. The first, on May 3rd, reportedly destroyed the Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) hospital in Old Fangak. A second strike on May 5th landed just 50 meters from an NGO compound in New Fangak, according to the forum.
The statement emphasized that these airstrikes have threatened civilians, including employees of aid organizations. It noted that services have been interrupted and equipment destroyed.
South Sudan NGO Forum appealed to the government to provide protection for endangered populations, including humanitarian agencies. They also urged the opposition side to respect international humanitarian law.
Furthermore, the forum called on other humanitarian organizations to extend their reach to Fangak and other affected locations and to collaborate on effective strategies to prevent tensions from escalating further.
“We also call for unimpeded and sustained humanitarian access to all affected populations, especially in areas impacted by violence, and for concrete steps to be taken by national and international actors to prevent further escalation and destruction of lives and properties,” the statement concluded.
The South Sudan NGO Forum reiterated its commitment to delivering life-saving assistance and advocating for the protection of civilians across the country.