2026 Jonglei offensive

2026 Jonglei offensive
Part of the aftermath of the South Sudanese Civil War
Location Jonglei, South Sudan Status Ongoing Territorial changes Parts of Tiam Payam and Wek seized by the SSPDF
Belligerents
South Sudan	SPLM-IO Nuer White Army
Commanders and leaders
Lul Ruai Koang Paul Nang John Uliny	Riek Machar (POW)
Units involved
South Sudan People's Defence Forces Agwelek militia	Unknown

On 27 January 2026, the South Sudan People's Defence Forces announced the launch of a large-scale military operation against opposition forces, prompting concerns over the safety of civilians.

In a statement, army spokesperson Lul Ruai Koang said the operation, named Operation Enduring Peace, would begin immediately. He instructed civilians to evacuate three counties in Jonglei State and instructed humanitarian organizations to withdraw within 48 hours.

Background

Beginning in December 2025, opposition forces captured government outposts in Jonglei, a region that is predominantly inhabited by the Nuer ethnic group and has long been regarded as an opposition stronghold.

Some of the forces involved are aligned with opposition leader Riek Machar, while others identify as members of the Nuer White Army, an ethnic Nuer militia. Although Nuer White Army fighters have historically fought alongside Machar's forces, the group considers itself independent.

Timeline

The SPLA-IO withdrew from Pajut ahead of the offensive, subsequently regrouping in Yuai and other areas of Uror County. Fighting reached Tiam Payam, near Yuai town. The SPLM-IO confirmed that Tiam Payam and parts of Wek in Wickol Payam came under the control of the SSPDF on Monday. Further SSPDF advances toward Panyok and Wau Payam were repelled.

Government forces allegedly burned down parts of Tiam and Wek, resulting in the destruction of civilian property. He also reported heavy aerial bombardment of Yuai and Karam over a two-day period, which he said forced civilians to flee into surrounding areas.