South Sudan: Fighting breaks out in Fangak state Nov. 21

Event

According to local sources, heavy fighting broke out on Tuesday, November 21, in Fangak state. Pro-government troops reportedly attacked rebel positions in Wau and Ayod counties. It is unclear if the fighting led to any casualties. Heightened security in the area is to be expected, and further clashes are possible.

Context

South Sudan is wracked by political, interethnic, and intercommunal violence, all exacerbated by border and oil revenue disputes with Sudan. Following the 2011 signature of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement that gave the country its independence from Sudan, the predominantly north-south conflict has given way to a pattern of internal violence. Since December 2013, the country has experienced a stop-and-start civil war between the government of President Salva Kiir Mayardit and the SPLA on one side, and rebel forces in support of former Vice President Riek Machar Tehny Durgon and his Sudan People's Liberation Army in Opposition (SPLA-IO) on the other. This is despite international support for state-building and peace-keeping - including the 12,000 strong United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) deployed since 2011. The number of South Sudanese citizens displaced by the conflict currently stands at some 3.5 million.

Advice

Individuals in Fangak state are advised to remain vigilant and to follow all instructions issued by local authorities.

Many Western governments advise against nonessential travel to South Sudan. Certain regions should be particularly avoided, including the states of Unity and Upper Nile, the north of Warrap state, parts of Eastern and Central Equatoria states, and areas along the border with the Central African Republic, Kenya, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. If travel is necessary, ensure that proper security protocols are in place.