Tragedy Strikes South Sudan: Humanitarian Convoy Ambushed, UN Condemns Attack

UN ‘deeply saddened’ by Monday attack on convoy in Jonglei State, calls for investigation.

Published On 30 Jun 202630 Jun 2026

The United Nations has expressed deep sorrow over the killing of five humanitarian workers during an ambush on their convoy in South Sudan’s Jonglei State.

UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric announced at a news conference on Tuesday that the victims were traveling in a convoy operated by a local partner, which came under attack on Monday in Duk County.

“Four others sustained injuries, and several civilians reportedly suffered casualties,” Dujarric stated.

He emphasized that the convoy was clearly marked as humanitarian, and the UN vehemently condemned the attack, affirming that such violence contravenes international humanitarian law.

This incident has resulted in the deaths of 29 humanitarian workers and contractors since January.

In a separate Facebook statement, the John Dau Foundation (JDF)—whose convoy was targeted—expressed profound grief. The convoy, transporting staff returning from a World Food Programme training session, was traveling between Payuel Payam and Pajut in Panyang Payam, Duk County.

“This event marks the most distressing chapter in JDF’s history, and we urge all stakeholders to offer support to the affected families and the JDF community during these challenging times,” the statement added.

Dujarric further noted that the UN peacekeeping mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) released a report detailing over 760 conflict-related deaths between January and March, reflecting an 89% increase compared to the previous quarter. These escalating hostilities have highlighted urgent calls for justice and protection of humanitarian personnel.

He cited the growing prevalence of conflict-related sexual violence and urged all parties to uphold international legal obligations. UN Special Representative Anita Kiki Gbeho underscored the necessity for compliance with human rights norms in the region.

Since its 2011 independence, South Sudan has endured persistent conflicts, exacerbating one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises.

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