The UN warns that over 600,000 people in Sudan are on the verge of starvation amid severe violence. Human rights chief Volker Turk emphasized the dire humanitarian situation in five areas, urging immediate action to end the conflict and address the escalating famine. The ongoing crisis has resulted in over 12 million displaced individuals and a surge in cholera cases, further deepening the emergency.
The United Nations has issued a dire warning regarding the humanitarian crisis in Sudan, stating that over 600,000 individuals are currently on the brink of starvation amid escalating violence. The UN human rights chief, Volker Turk, indicated that famine conditions have emerged in five regions, including the Zamzam refugee camp in North Darfur. Operations by organizations such as the World Food Programme and Doctors Without Borders are suspended due to heightened conflict, exacerbating the suffering of the population.
Addressing the UN Human Rights Council, Mr. Turk expressed grave concerns about Sudan nearing a catastrophic crisis, highlighting the looming threat of famine in additional areas over the coming months. He characterized the situation as “the world’s largest humanitarian catastrophe” and called for urgent measures to halt the conflict, facilitate immediate aid, and restore agricultural activities. Moreover, he cautioned that Sudan risks further chaos, increasing the dangers of mass deaths.
The ongoing conflict, which began in April 2023, has resulted in tens of thousands of fatalities and created the most significant displacement crisis globally, displacing over 12 million individuals. Turk emphasized that the actions of the Rapid Support Forces to consolidate control in their territories could deepen local divisions and provoke ongoing violence. Currently, an estimated 30.4 million people in Sudan require humanitarian assistance, with the health system struggling to cope under the pressure of the crisis.
The cholera epidemic is intensifying, especially in the White Nile state, where approximately 70 fatalities and over 2,200 infections have been reported. This outbreak follows a drone strike that disrupted access to clean water, further threatening public health. The country has faced more than 55,000 cholera cases since last August, escalating the humanitarian emergency within Sudan.
Children are particularly vulnerable in this crisis, trapped in a relentless cycle of violence, disease, and hunger. Mohamed Abdiladif, the country director for Save the Children in Sudan, highlighted the devastating effects this situation has on young lives, underscoring the urgent need for effective interventions and support to address these challenges.
In summary, Sudan is confronting a severe humanitarian crisis characterized by mass starvation and widespread displacement due to ongoing conflict. The UN has urged immediate action to prevent further deterioration and to provide essential aid to millions in need. With a collapsing health system and increasing disease outbreaks, the situation is critical and requires urgent international attention to avert catastrophe. The plight of children in particular remains a pressing concern, necessitating comprehensive efforts to protect and assist the most vulnerable populations in Sudan.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
