South Sudan government forces (SSPDF) reportedly carried out air strikes on Monday, 18 August, targeting Madeng Payam in Nasir County, Upper Nile State. Local accounts say the area shelters civilians who fled earlier fighting after government troops temporarily pushed White Army youth out of Nasir town and, months earlier, from SPLM-IO positions in Fangak County.

The escalation has renewed fears that the fragile peace process could unravel and the country could slip back into civil war. United Nations bodies have previously warned South Sudan’s leaders against actions that risk a return to nationwide conflict.

President Salva Kiir has accused his political rival, First Vice-President and SPLM-IO leader Dr Riek Machar, of involvement in the Nasir violence that led to the death of a senior government general. Machar has denied any wrongdoing and rejected claims that he ordered White Army youth to attack government soldiers in Nasir County.

Human rights organisations condemned the reported strikes as attacks on civilians and urged all parties to resolve outstanding disputes, respect the ceasefire, and protect non-combatants in line with international humanitarian law. The African Union and other peace partners have reiterated calls for authorities to lift restrictions on Machar—who serves as First Vice-President and leads the SPLM-IO—though these appeals have so far gone unanswered.

Last week, presidential adviser Kuol Manyang emphasised that restrictions on Machar were not politically motivated, alleging they relate to crimes including the Nasir incident.

Regional mediators and international partners continue to press both sides to de-escalate and recommit to implementing the peace agreement.