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New Violence Erupts in South Sudan after Weeks of Quiet

Carrie Dedrick

Renewed fighting broke out in South Sudan on Friday (Aug. 15) after weeks of quiet in the civil-war torn country. The latest conflict is a result of rebel leader Riek Machar blaming the South Sudanese government of spending the country’s oil profits on weapons instead of aid for millions that are facing food insecurity in the nation. 

Aid workers station in South Sudan were forced to take cover as the fighting erupted in the city of Bentiu. CARE project manager Timothy Ngyuai said, "We heard the sound of fighting and took cover in the bunkers as it started to get closer. We're back at work now, providing life-saving assistance to those who have fled the violence and have chartered a flight for tomorrow morning to bring medicine to help treat the sick and wounded."

South Sudan’s civil war has caused 1.5 million residents to flee their homes; farmers have abandoned crops contributing to the serious food crisis and potential famine in the region. Most recently, the nation missed its deadline to reach a peace settlement, adding further concern for the physical well-being of civilians. 

Senator of State John Kerry said, "Deadlines keep passing and innocent people keep dying. The log-rolling and delay has to end."

Publication date: August 15, 2014