South Sudan’s military has directed civilians to immediately vacate areas under the control of the Sudan People’s Liberation Army in Opposition (SPLA-IO) in northern Jonglei State, citing security risks as fighting intensifies.

In a statement released Tuesday from its General Headquarters in Juba, the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) said civilians should move away from locations near military barracks, assembly zones and rally points to avoid being caught in ongoing combat operations.

The evacuation order affects residents of Nyirol, Uror and Akobo counties, predominantly inhabited by the Lou Nuer community.

SSPDF spokesperson Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang said the directive was meant to safeguard civilians and prevent their alleged use as human shields during military engagements. He said the move aims to reduce civilian casualties during current and planned phases of the fighting.

The evacuation order comes amid escalating tensions between forces loyal to President Salva Kiir and those aligned with opposition leader Riek Machar, placing the fragile 2018 peace agreement that ended a five-year civil war under renewed strain.

The warning follows clashes earlier this week in Riang Payam, Nyirol County. On Monday, government forces reportedly carried out an airstrike on a market in Lankien town, an SPLA-IO-controlled area, killing several civilians, according to local sources.

Last week, SPLA-IO fighters captured Waat, the administrative headquarters of Nyirol County, from government troops, though the SSPDF has not publicly commented on the development.

SPLA-IO officials in Jonglei have also warned of a possible advance toward Yuai, the headquarters of Uror County, where government forces have been stationed since before the 2018 peace deal.

Northern Jonglei has experienced a sharp escalation in hostilities in recent weeks, heightening fears for civilian safety and the stability of South Sudan’s peace process.