Qatar’s Minister of State for International Cooperation, Lolwah Al Khater, reaffirmed support for Sudan’s security amid ongoing conflict causing a humanitarian crisis affecting 24.8 million people. Despite commitments to facilitate aid, significant delivery shortages persist, exacerbating conditions for displaced individuals, particularly in Zamzam camp.
In light of the ongoing conflict in Sudan, which has plunged the nation into a severe humanitarian crisis, Qatar’s Minister of State for International Cooperation, Lolwah Al Khater, has reiterated the nation’s unwavering commitment to the security and stability of Sudan. This reaffirmation of support occurred during a meeting held in Doha on Sunday with Sudan’s Acting Federal Minister of Health, Dr. Haitham Mohamed Ibrahim. The discussions centered on enhancing cooperation between the two nations, with a particular emphasis on Qatar’s enduring support for the Sudanese people. Al Khater stated, “Qatar’s firm position on the necessity of preserving the security of Sudan, its official institutions, its stability, and the safety and unity of its territories”. The conflict in Sudan began last year, primarily pitting the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) led by Mohammed Hamdan Daglo against the Sudanese army under the command of Abdel Fattah Al Burhan. Despite numerous attempts at mediation from international entities, including the United States and Saudi Arabia, the fighting has persisted for over a year. According to recent estimates from the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 20,000 fatalities have been recorded, although this number likely underrepresents the actual toll. The conflict has caused significant displacement, with over 10 million people internally uprooted and an additional two million fleeing to neighboring countries such as Libya, Egypt, and Chad. As reported by the United Nations, an alarming 24.8 million individuals are in need of humanitarian assistance this year. The situation is further complicated by the outbreak of various diseases, including cholera, malaria, and measles. While promises of humanitarian access were made during the U.S.-led discussions in Geneva in August, tangible aid has been almost non-existent. Doctors Without Borders (MSF) has recently highlighted the dire conditions in Zamzam camp in North Darfur, where they were compelled to suspend care for 5,000 malnourished children due to inhibited aid delivery. MSF announced, “Despite hopeful announcements following peace talks in Geneva in mid-August, no significant amount of humanitarian aid has reached people in Zamzam camp nor in nearby El-Fasher since 1 August.” The camp currently hosts between 300,000 and 500,000 displaced individuals who have repeatedly suffered dislocation due to the ongoing violence. MSF urged all warring parties to facilitate the delivery of essential food, medicine, and supplies to those in dire need in Zamzam camp.
The situation in Sudan has deteriorated significantly since the outbreak of violence between the RSF and the Sudanese army. Following years of political instability and escalating tensions, this conflict has resulted in widespread humanitarian crises, and the involvement of various international actors has not yet effectively curtailed the violence. Qatar has positioned itself as a supportive ally to Sudan during this tumultuous period, emphasizing the importance of stability and security in the region.
In summary, Qatar has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Sudan amidst an escalating humanitarian crisis exacerbated by a prolonged war. The troubling statistics concerning casualties, displacement, and disease highlight the urgent need for both humanitarian aid and a resolution to the conflict. As the situation remains dire, international efforts must be aimed at ensuring the delivery of necessary support and achieving peace in the region.
Original Source: dohanews.co