He also highlighted the role of misinformation and hate speech in exacerbating ethnic divisions and fears within the country.

The U.N. has warned that South Sudan is on the brink of renewed civil war, following escalating tensions and recent violence, particularly after the government's sudden postponement of peace efforts.

Since gaining independence from Sudan in 2011, South Sudan has faced ongoing conflict rooted in ethnic tensions between Kiir's Dinka and Machar's Nuer factions.

The U.N. warns that a return to civil war would replicate the atrocities experienced during previous conflicts, urging immediate action to prevent further violence.

Amid this turmoil, a U.N. helicopter was attacked while on a mission to evacuate troops in Nasir, resulting in the death of a South Sudanese general and highlighting the dangerous environment for peacekeeping operations.

As elections approach, political competition between Kiir and Machar intensifies, further worsening trust issues and hindering the implementation of peace agreements.

The peace agreement established in 2018 aimed to form a unity government, but elections originally scheduled for February 2023 have been postponed multiple times, now set for December 2026.

The White Army recently captured a military garrison in Nasir, complicating the already precarious security situation.

Haysom described the situation as 'dire' and stressed that peace can only be achieved if Kiir and Machar prioritize their people's interests over personal agendas.

Recent fighting in Upper Nile state has involved clashes between government troops and the White Army, a rebel militia believed to support Vice President Riek Machar.

In response to the escalating conflict, the U.N. peacekeeping mission, led by envoy Nicolas Haysom, is engaging in shuttle diplomacy with international and regional partners, urging dialogue between President Salva Kiir and Machar.

Haysom emphasized that misinformation and ethnic divisions could lead to a repeat of the civil war horrors experienced in 2013 and 2016, urging both leaders to prioritize peace over personal power struggles.