A leading human rights organization has called for an international force to protect civilians in Sudan amidst escalating violence by the Rapid Support Forces. The RSF’s recent rampage in Gezira province, marked by killings and sexual assaults, highlights the dire need for intervention as millions face displacement and humanitarian crises amid this ongoing conflict.
A prominent human rights organization has urgently called for the deployment of an international force to safeguard civilians in Sudan amidst alarming reports of brutal violence perpetrated by the paramilitary group Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The group has been implicated in numerous killings and widespread sexual assaults in the Gezira province, which lies adjacent to the capital, Khartoum. Human Rights Watch has specifically urged Britain, in its capacity as the president of the UN Security Council, to advocate for action to protect civilians in light of the RSF’s ongoing atrocities. The conflict in Sudan, which erupted in April 2023, has led to an unprecedented humanitarian crisis with over 24,000 fatalities and approximately 14 million citizens displaced. The ongoing violence has exacerbated existing conditions of famine and disease, including a cholera outbreak that has claimed over 800 lives. The RSF has maintained control over Gezira since December 2022, and following the defection of one of its commanders, the group has escalated its violent activities. Eyewitness accounts have revealed chilling acts of violence against civilians, including executions and sexual violence. Recent testimonies have illustrated the terror faced by residents in towns such as Tamboul, where armed RSF fighters attacked indiscriminately, shooting civilians and committing several sexual assaults. Moreover, accounts from other towns, like Sariha, reflected the extensive death toll and injuries inflicted by the RSF. Human rights advocates continue to call for international intervention and negotiations to foster a peaceful resolution to the conflict, while the global community remains largely preoccupied with other international crises.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan originated from escalating tensions between the military and the RSF, resulting in widespread violence and a humanitarian catastrophe. This struggle for power has profoundly affected the civilian population, resulting in over 14 million displaced individuals and creating the most extensive displacement crisis in 2023 according to the International Organization for Migration. Amidst the violence, rights groups have repeatedly urged international intervention to protect civilians and to foster diplomatic negotiations aimed at establishing a ceasefire.
In summary, the grave situation in Sudan necessitates immediate international action to protect civilians from the despicable violence inflicted by the RSF. The humanitarian crisis has reached alarming levels, with tens of thousands killed and millions displaced. Continuous advocacy from rights groups highlights the urgency for global cooperation and pressure to achieve a peaceful resolution and safeguard affected populations.
Original Source: apnews.com
