The members of the Security Council have condemned “in the strongest terms the escalation of fighting in Juba”.

The fighting erupted in the capital on July 7. The cause of the gunfight between the national army and opposition forces is unclear. However, officials say hundreds have been killed in the battle.

“The members of the Security Council urged an immediate end to the fighting by all concerned and demanded that President Kiir and First Vice President Machar do their utmost to control their respective forces, urgently end the fighting and prevent the spread of violence, and genuinely commit themselves to the full and immediate implementation of the peace agreement, including the permanent ceasefire and redeployment of military forces from Juba,” partly read a statement.

The members of the Security Council encouraged countries in the region, the African Union Peace and Security Council and the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development, to continue firmly engaging with South Sudanese leaders to address the crisis.

Meanwhile, the head of UN Mission in South Sudan, Ellen Margrethe Løj called for an immediate end to the violence.

Madam Margrethe issued a recorded statement today calling on all warring parties to cease hostilities and give peace a chance.