As violence intensifies in South Sudan, the United Nations Security Council faces a critical decision on whether to renew the arms embargo imposed on the country. The council is urged to prevent further weapon inflow to combatants and foreign forces contributing to ongoing violations.
Recent months have seen government forces targeting populated areas with helicopter gunfire and air-dropped munitions, endangering civilians. Human Rights Watch reported that in March, the government deployed improvised incendiary bombs in Upper Nile state, resulting in severe casualties, including children. Such actions could be classified as war crimes due to their impact on civilian populations.
The conflict has displaced tens of thousands, forcing many to seek refuge in neighboring countries. Humanitarian efforts are hindered by bureaucratic obstacles and attacks, exemplified by a recent bombing at a Médecins Sans Frontières hospital.
Since 2018, South Sudan has been subject to a UN arms embargo that restricts weapons transfers and external military support for its warring factions. However, recent reports from Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International highlight Uganda’s deployment of soldiers and military equipment into South Sudan as a clear breach of these restrictions.
Additionally, the government’s house arrest of opposition leader Riek Machar without due process threatens to reignite prolonged conflict within the nation.
The Security Council is called upon to address Uganda’s violation of the embargo and extend it for another year to safeguard civilians from abusive forces. It should also urge South Sudanese authorities to allow free movement for the UN peacekeeping mission (UNMISS) within the country.
President Salva Kiir of South Sudan has long advocated for lifting the arms embargo, which has weakened support among some states for maintaining UN sanctions. Last year saw a narrow approval by the council to extend the embargo until May 31, 2025.
Maintaining rather than lifting the arms embargo is crucial to prevent further atrocities by emboldened warring parties. The Security Council must ensure accountability for those who violate these measures.
