A senior UN official reports that Sudan’s conflict has resulted in severe humanitarian crises, affecting over 24.6 million people. Recent highlights include unceasing violence in North Darfur and Khartoum, leading to civilian fatalities and displacements. The international community is urged to facilitate humanitarian access and funding to alleviate suffering, as the situation remains dire approaching the two-year mark of conflict.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan has led to catastrophic conditions, as emphasized by Edem Wosornu of the UN humanitarian affairs office during a recent Security Council briefing. She revealed that nearly two years of warfare between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have left over 24.6 million people facing acute hunger and over 12 million displaced, with many fleeing to neighboring countries.
Ms. Wosornu presented concerning updates regarding the North Darfur state, particularly the Zamzam displacement camp, where violence continues unabated. Despite the Security Council’s Resolution 2739 (2024) calling for the cessation of attacks, civilians remain under siege in El Fasher. Heavy weaponry usage and famine conditions exacerbate the dire landscape, with casualties including humanitarian workers who are unable to exit the affected areas amid intense fighting.
In Khartoum, fierce fighting has led to verified reports of civilian executions as control over territories fluctuates. There is increasing alarm over the safety of local responders and community volunteers, compounded by reports of fighting extending to southern regions like North and South Kordofan. Recent attacks in White Nile state have resulted in the deaths of numerous civilians, heightening concerns around humanitarian operations.
Ms. Wosornu also highlighted the recent launch of the 2025 humanitarian response plans for Sudan, requiring $6 billion to assist nearly 25 million people and an additional five million refugees in surrounding nations. She urged the international community, particularly members of the Security Council, to act decisively to alleviate this expanding crisis.
During her address, Ms. Wosornu made three key requests for action. First, she called on the Security Council and influential member states to enforce compliance with international humanitarian law to protect civilians. Next, she stressed the importance of achieving unhindered humanitarian access for those in need. Lastly, she underscored the need for significant international funding to address Sudan’s unprecedented humanitarian challenges.
The calls from the UN humanitarian office underscore the urgent need for immediate action and robust international support in Sudan. The conflict has led to immense human suffering, necessitating both humanitarian access and funding to assist millions at risk. The international community must prioritize civilian protection and compliance with humanitarian laws to mitigate the crisis and support those in dire need.
Original Source: news.un.org
