The African Union says it is deeply concerned over the resumption of fighting in South Sudan. 

There has been fighting in Unity State, particularly in Bentiu and its surrounding areas.

AU says that it is ready to impose targeted sanctions and any other tough measures against any party that fails to honor its commitments to the peace process.

In a statement issued after the meeting of the African Union Peace and Security Council, the AU said fighting continues to cause untold suffering to the South Sudanese population.

The council reiterated its condemnation of the violations of the Cessation of Hostilities Agreements signed by the two parties.

It urges the two parties to bring an immediate end to the fighting and speed up the talks facilitated by IGAD.

The Council appeals to both parties to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian assistance to the affected population and to ensure the protection of humanitarian aid agencies.

It expressed readiness to impose targeted sanctions against any party that undermines the search for a negotiated solution to the current crisis.