Soldiers parade at Luri Training Center at a deployment event. November 15, 2023. (Eye Radio).

JUBA, South Sudan (Eye Radio) – Several Western embassies in South Sudan have issued an urgent call for an immediate end to hostilities following a surge in regional violence across Jonglei, Eastern Equatoria, and other parts of the country.

In a joint communique released on Tuesday, January 20, the diplomatic missions of Canada, France, Germany, Japan, the Netherlands, Norway, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States expressed “grave concern” over the escalating conflict.

The envoys warned that the continued violence poses a direct threat to the lives of innocent civilians and regional stability.

The diplomatic missions underscored that the deteriorating security situation is severely hampering aid efforts.

“We call on all parties to agree to an immediate cessation of hostilities and to resolve issues through peaceful dialogue,” the group stated. “We renew our call for all parties to guarantee safe and unhindered humanitarian access.”

The embassies emphasized that sustainable peace can only be achieved through diplomatic engagement, urging all stakeholders to prioritize the safety of the population and the delivery of life-saving assistance.