The European Union (EU), on Friday, called for an immediate ceasefire in the escalating security situation in South Sudan, especially in Jonglei State.

The bloc made the call in a statement by Anouar El Anouni, the spokesperson for EU Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.

He said that an immediate ceasefire was the only guarantee for peace and stability in South Sudan. 

According to him, the EU follows with concern the escalating security situation in South Sudan, especially in Jonglei State, and calls on all parties to return to the terms of the 2018 peace agreement. 

“We strongly condemn any inflammatory rhetoric calling for violence against civilians. We will work with the international community to uphold justice and hold those responsible to account if necessary. 

“The EU has heavily invested in peace in South Sudan, supporting the International Authority on Development (IGAD), the institutions of the peace agreement and providing humanitarian aid to millions of South Sudanese. 

“We are alarmed by the high number of people displaced or left without any care or lifesaving assistance that the resurgence of internal conflicts has caused. 

“The EU calls for unrestricted humanitarian access, adherence to International Humanitarian Law and the protection of humanitarian facilities,” he said. 

South Sudan is presently experiencing a severe escalation in violence, particularly in Jonglei State.

There has also been intensified fighting between the government-controlled South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and opposition forces, leading to over 180,000 displacements.

A dire humanitarian crisis persists, with 10 million people (84 per cent of the population) needing aid due to conflict, economic collapse, and floods. 

(NAN)