NAIROBI — The U.S. State Department has ordered non-emergency government personnel to evacuate South Sudan’s capital amid escalating tensions fueled by ongoing violence. A recent travel advisory highlighted that “weapons are readily available to the population,” indicating a deteriorating security situation. Clashes in the northern regions have intensified, resulting in the arrest of two ministers and a deputy military chief allied to former rebel leader Riek Machar, further straining the fragile peace agreement established in 2018.

The peace deal was crafted to end a civil war that left over 400,000 dead, yet recent developments threaten its stability. Armed confrontations were reported, including an alarming assault on a UN helicopter conducting an evacuation mission, which has been condemned as a potential war crime. The UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan stated that the prevalent violence could “derail” years of progress towards peace, urging leaders to reinvigorate the peace process and prioritize human rights.

During this turbulent time, President Salva Kiir has called for calm, insisting that the country must not revert to past conflicts. Despite former assurances, fears of another civil war are rising as community tensions mount and armed groups clash with government forces. An increasing number of voices, including the UN's Yasmin Sooka, emphasize the urgent need for leaders to focus on a peaceful resolution to prevent further regression.

The U.S. government's decision to withdraw its personnel underscores a significant international concern regarding the precarious situation in South Sudan. As tensions rise, nations observe closely, hoping for a peaceful outcome to this growing crisis. For further information, visit Los Angeles Times, VOA News, Africa News, and BBC.