Jonglei State, South Sudan (Running Africa) — At least five humanitarian workers were killed and four others injured after a clearly marked aid convoy was ambushed in Duk County, Jonglei State, highlighting the growing security risks facing humanitarian operations in South Sudan.

The convoy, operated by the John Dau Foundation (JDF), was transporting staff members returning from a World Food Program (WFP)-supported training session when it came under attack on Monday.

The United Nations condemned the assault, describing it as a serious violation of international humanitarian law and calling for an immediate and transparent investigation to bring those responsible to justice.

UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said the attack also reportedly left several civilians dead or injured, underscoring the devastating impact of the violence on both aid workers and local communities.

The John Dau Foundation described the ambush as the deadliest incident in the organization’s history, expressing condolences to the victims’ families and appealing for support for those affected by the attack.

The latest killings underscore the worsening security situation in South Sudan, where humanitarian personnel continue to face increasing threats while delivering lifesaving assistance to vulnerable populations.

According to the United Nations, 29 humanitarian workers and contractors have been killed in South Sudan since January 2026, making it one of the world’s most dangerous environments for aid operations.

South Sudan, which gained independence in 2011, continues to struggle with recurring armed conflict, political instability and widespread displacement. The ongoing violence has deepened what humanitarian agencies describe as one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises, leaving millions of people dependent on emergency aid for survival.