Washington, D.C. – The United States has announced visa restrictions on individuals within the South Sudanese government and others who have hindered the delivery of humanitarian aid by imposing taxes on shipments, according to a statement released by the State Department on Friday.

South Sudan, a nation ravaged by civil war from 2013 to 2018, continues to face one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises. Ongoing conflict, natural disasters, and widespread poverty have left millions in desperate need of assistance.

The situation has been exacerbated by South Sudanese authorities reportedly delaying United Nations fuel tankers due to a tax dispute. This hold-up is jeopardizing the delivery of millions of dollars in critical aid during a time of dire need, U.N. missions in the region have reported.

State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller expressed deep concern over the situation, noting that despite prior assurances from the South Sudanese government, significant barriers remain to delivering aid.

“Despite assurances, the government has yet to effectively reduce the unacceptably high costs, bureaucratic obstacles, and risks of providing humanitarian assistance to South Sudanese people in need,

The newly imposed visa restrictions will render the individuals involved ineligible for entry into the United States, underscoring the U.S. government's commitment to holding those accountable who obstruct life-saving aid during a humanitarian crisis.

As South Sudan struggles to navigate its post-conflict challenges, the international community continues to watch closely, urging the government to honor its commitments and facilitate the free flow of humanitarian aid.