The UN has condemned the reported summary executions of civilians in Sudan amidst ongoing conflict, with rising concerns over starvation and malnutrition impacting vulnerable populations. Attacks continue to escalate, particularly affecting regions like Khartoum and Darfur. The UN calls for immediate action to protect civilians and facilitate humanitarian access as the crisis worsens.
The UN Secretary-General has issued a grave warning regarding the situation in Sudan, expressing concern over reported summary executions of civilians in Khartoum North, allegedly conducted by fighters allied with the military government. Many victims are believed to originate from the war-torn regions of Darfur and Kordofan. Stéphane Dujarric, the Secretary-General’s spokesperson, emphasized the responsibilities of all conflicting parties to adhere to international laws that prioritize civilian protection.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan, which has escalated since April 2023 between government forces and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), continues to have devastating effects on civilians. UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, classified the war as senseless, with reports indicating that both sides have committed war crimes. He noted that the situation has become increasingly perilous for civilians amidst rising reports of ethnic killings.
In light of the worsening humanitarian crisis, civilian casualties remain high, particularly following a recent attack in Omdurman that resulted in at least 60 deaths and over 150 injuries. Reports of violence have also emerged from North Kordofan and various regions in Darfur. The UN Office for Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has warned of increasing fatalities as indiscriminate attacks escalate, including those against displacement camps.
The situation regarding food security in Sudan has deteriorated significantly, with OCHA citing over 70 hunger-related fatalities in Khartoum, predominantly affecting children. Additionally, January saw more than 1,100 cases of severe malnutrition reported in Omdurman. Access restrictions have forced the closure of crucial community kitchens, heightening the need for sustained food assistance targeting vulnerable groups.
Mr. Dujarric highlighted the urgent necessity for increased funding and logistic support to bolster nutrition programs, particularly for children and the elderly. The UN has reiterated its call for the safeguarding of civilian lives and the facilitation of essential humanitarian aid access. Clementine Nkweta-Salami, UN Humanitarian Coordinator, lamented the prolonged suffering of Sudanese civilians, asserting that immediate action is imperative to halt the ongoing war and avert further tragedy.
The situation in Sudan has escalated into a humanitarian crisis marked by violent conflict and severe food insecurity. Since April 2023, clashes between government troops and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have led to significant civilian casualties and allegations of war crimes. The ongoing violence has particularly affected vulnerable communities, such as those in the Darfur and Kordofan regions, with civilians facing starvation and health risks due to lack of access to food and sanitation. Recent attacks have heightened awareness of the urgent need for international intervention and humanitarian aid.
The deteriorating situation in Sudan, as articulated by UN officials, highlights the urgent need for immediate action to protect civilians and provide humanitarian assistance. The rising number of reported civilian executions and malnutrition cases signals a critical humanitarian crisis that requires coordinated international response. It is essential for all warring parties to honor their obligations under international humanitarian law to prevent further suffering and restore peace.
Original Source: news.un.org
