Cyprus News Agency

Fletcher told the UN Security Council that South Sudan is at a "dangerous crossroads."

He stressed that conflict, displacement, hunger, and disease are rapidly increasing, while humanitarian funding has sharply declined. Two-thirds of the population will need aid this year, yet only 22% of the $1.46 billion response plan has been funded.

He highlighted that the situation in Jonglei state is particularly critical, with hundreds of thousands displaced since December and tens of thousands fleeing to Ethiopia.

The statement read: "The world’s youngest country stands at a dangerous crossroads. Conflict is rising, hunger is increasing, disease is spreading, but funding is falling."

Fletcher noted that health infrastructure has also been severely damaged, with 1.35 million people in Jonglei losing access to healthcare, and rising cholera cases alongside ongoing measles outbreaks.

He emphasized that escalating violence is targeting civilians, forcing many families to relocate multiple times, while humanitarian workers have withdrawn due to attacks.

He also stated that the war in Sudan has driven hundreds of thousands of refugees and returnees into South Sudan, deepening the crisis.

Fletcher warned of a growing risk of famine and urged the international community to ensure unhindered humanitarian access, rapidly increase funding, and pressure parties to protect civilians.

"Humanitarian aid can save lives, but only peace can end this crisis," he said, stressing the need to strengthen the political process.