The United Nations is warning South Sudan is on the brink of famine and genocide unless warring factions end their fighting. Thousands have been killed and more than one million people have fled their homes since clashes broke out in December. After a visit to South Sudan last week, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon called for an immediate truce.

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon: “Ladies and gentleman, I was extremely alarmed by what I saw and heard during my brief visit to South Sudan. The threat of massive famine is clear and present danger. If the conflict continues, half of South Sudan’s 12 million people will be run out of their homes, starving or dead by the end of this year. To avoid famine, we are calling for 30 days of tranquility, and I have also called for a tribunal to ensure accountability for the crimes committed by both sides.”

South Sudan was due to hold presidential elections next year, but they have now been postponed as part of reconciliation efforts.