BOR, South Sudan, July 19 (UPI) -- The United Nations announced it has mounted a response for up to 25,000 South Sudan civilians who are stranded as a result of fighting in the country.
Clashes between armed groups in South Sudan's Jonglei state and government forces have displaced thousands of civilians since January, the United Nations said in a statement.
Although the United Nations has had access to most of the people In the area, it was unable to reach 25,000 this week who were hiding in remote areas in the bush.
U.N. agencies and non-governmental organizations now have a team on the ground and are providing medical assistance, water purification tables and plastic sheeting to the stranded civilians.
"Basic services can be provided by humanitarian organizations, assuming that all parties ensure unhindered and continuous access, as well as an environment which is safe and welcoming for non-governmental organizations and UN agencies," U.N. Humanitarian Coordinator in South Sudan, Toby Lanzer, said.
