The United Nations has expressed deep concern over the escalating violence between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in North Darfur, which has resulted in devastating consequences for the civilian population.
According to a statement released by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, the fighting has been reported in El Fasher, North Darfur, and has led to a humanitarian crisis in the region. The clashes have caused famine conditions in Zamzam camp, south of El Fasher, and are likely prevailing in other displacement sites in the city.
The UN Secretary-General has called on all parties to abide by their obligations under international humanitarian law to protect civilians and facilitate rapid and unimpeded humanitarian access. He also urged the parties to return to political dialogue as the only path to a negotiated settlement.
The conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the RSF has been ongoing since April 2023, resulting in the deaths of at least 12,260 people and more than 33,000 injuries. The violence has forced nearly 6.8 million people to flee their homes, seeking safety in Sudan or neighboring countries.
Several ceasefire agreements brokered by Saudi Arabia and US mediators have failed to end the violence. The UN Secretary-General has reiterated his call for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a lasting ceasefire.
The situation in North Darfur is critical, and it is imperative that all parties work towards a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The international community must continue to urge all parties to respect human rights and international humanitarian law to protect civilians and ensure their access to humanitarian aid.
