The UK government condemned the ongoing violence in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, calling it a significant humanitarian catastrophe. Foreign Secretary David Lammy addressed the violence in Sudan between the SAF and RSF, citing recent attacks on hospitals and civilians. He also discussed the escalating conflict in DRC, particularly concerning the M23 rebels. Lammy urged for immediate international action and humanitarian access to alleviate suffering in these regions.
On Tuesday, the United Kingdom issued a strong condemnation of the ongoing violence in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, labeling these crises as “one of the biggest humanitarian catastrophes of our lifetimes.” Foreign Secretary David Lammy addressed Parliament, emphasizing the dire humanitarian situation in Sudan, where over 21 months of conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has deepened suffering.
The recent escalation in Sudan saw RSF forces attack the last operational hospital in El-Fasher, resulting in the deaths of at least 70 patients and their companions, as reported by the World Health Organization. Additionally, Lammy condemned the RSF’s shelling of the Zamzam camp for internally displaced persons and the extrajudicial killings in Wad Madani, stating these acts reflect a “callous disregard for international humanitarian law and innocent Sudanese civilians.”
During his visit to Adré near the Chad-Sudan border, Lammy recounted harrowing accounts from refugees, primarily women and children. One woman shared her traumatic experiences, revealing scars from burns and assaults: she had been beaten and raped. Lammy urged the international community to address the plight of those affected by the violence.
In the Democratic Republic of Congo, Lammy expressed concerns over the escalating conflict in the east, particularly the recent incursions of M23 rebels into Goma. This offensive has resulted in the tragic deaths of UN peacekeepers and forced hundreds of thousands to flee their homes. The situation has rendered the region extremely perilous for women and girls, with disturbing reports of violence against minors.
Lammy called for greater international attention and action regarding the African crises, arguing against a hierarchy of conflicts. He advocated for an immediate ceasefire between the warring factions in Sudan, unrestricted humanitarian access, and a sustained United Nations presence. The UK has also revised its travel guidance for British nationals, discouraging travel to certain areas near the conflict zones.
Despite the complexities inherent in these conflicts, Lammy insisted that inaction is impermissible. He highlighted the powerlessness felt by civilians amidst the violence and affirmed the UK’s commitment to raising global awareness and seeking resolutions to the ongoing crises.
The humanitarian crises in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo are primarily driven by prolonged conflicts that have significant implications for civilians. In Sudan, the struggle between government forces and paramilitary groups has created dire conditions, exacerbating health and safety issues for the population. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, violence from rebel groups like M23 poses an increasing threat to stability and the safety of civilians, particularly vulnerable populations such as women and children.
The UK has taken a definitive stance in condemning the escalating violence in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, urging for immediate intervention and humanitarian support. With the humanitarian landscape deteriorating in both regions, greater international attention and engagement are necessary to protect civilians and restore order. David Lammy’s appeals highlight the urgency of addressing these crises through collective global action.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
