Germany Shuts Embassy in South Sudan Amid Concerns of Civil War

Germany has temporarily closed its embassy in Juba due to rising tensions in South Sudan, raising fears of a relapse into civil war. Ongoing violence follows political dismissals and has exacerbated severe food insecurity affecting millions. The situation underscores the fragile peace and humanitarian issues in the nation, which struggles after years of conflict.

Germany has announced the temporary closure of its embassy in Juba, South Sudan, due to escalating tensions that risk igniting a civil war. This declaration, issued by the German foreign ministry, underscores the precarious situation in the region. Concerns are mounting regarding a potential relapse into conflict in South Sudan, which has only recently emerged from a devastating civil war that resulted in extensive humanitarian crises.

The unrest in South Sudan has intensified following the dismissal of the Upper Nile state governor by President Salva Kiir, a move that has triggered violent clashes between government forces and ethnic militias aligned with First Vice President Riek Machar. This developing conflict resurrects fears of destabilization in a nation still healing from a brutal five-year civil war, which ended in 2018 and led to the deaths of over 400,000 individuals.

The German foreign ministry highlighted the urgent need for accountability, stating, “After years of fragile peace, South Sudan is once again on the brink of civil war.” Additionally, Nicholas Haysom, the United Nations peacekeeping chief in South Sudan, expressed similar concerns about the potential for renewed conflict. The United Nations Commission on Human Rights provided alarming insights, revealing that half of South Sudan’s population is facing food insecurity, with significant displacement of individuals, both internally and externally into neighboring nations.

In summary, the temporary closure of the German embassy in Juba reflects escalating concerns regarding the instability in South Sudan. Heightened tensions, particularly following political dismissals, have raised the specter of renewed civil conflict. This precarious situation is compounded by severe humanitarian challenges, including widespread food insecurity and mass displacement, raising urgent calls for responsible governance and adherence to peace agreements.

Original Source: africa.businessinsider.com