Summary
Thousands of people are fleeing the South Sudanese town of Akobo due to intense fighting between government forces and opposition groups. The violence is part of a larger conflict between supporters of President Salva Kiir and Riek Machar, raising concern about a potential return to civil war. The UN and other organizations warn that civilians are experiencing severe consequences from the ongoing clashes.
Key Facts
- Thousands have fled the town of Akobo and parts of Jonglei state in South Sudan.
- The military is intensifying strikes to regain control from opposition forces.
- Over 280,000 people were displaced by recent clashes.
- The conflict involves forces loyal to President Salva Kiir and opposition group SPLA-IO.
- Riek Machar has been accused of plotting against President Kiir and is under house arrest.
- A past peace deal has not been fully put into action, leading to renewed violence.
- The UN reported 189 civilian deaths in January and warned of a return to civil war.
- Civilians have experienced attacks, including aerial bombings.
