Sudan’s Joint Forces claimed to have intercepted a large military supply convoy intended for the RSF, which the RSF denied. The ongoing conflict since April has led to severe humanitarian crises, including thousands displaced and famine in several areas. UN officials warn of potential mass deaths unless rapid humanitarian action is taken.
On Friday, forces aligned with Sudan’s army reported the interception of a significant convoy carrying military supplies intended for the rival Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in North Darfur. The RSF, however, refuted these claims, labeling the Joint Forces’ statement as “incorrect and mere lies.” As of now, Reuters has not been able to independently verify the accusations.
The Joint Forces, comprising former rebel factions allied with the Sudanese army, alleged that the RSF was procuring supplies for indiscriminate shelling in populated areas such as Al-Fasher and Omdurman, as well as camps for displaced persons. Recent attacks by the RSF have been noted, particularly in famine-stricken regions.
Amidst these tensions, the Joint Forces announced that the intercepted convoy, located southeast of Al-Fasher, included a vast array of military gear, such as 10,000 rounds of 40mm artillery shells and 12,000 howitzer shells. Furthermore, they stated they had neutralized foreign mercenaries associated with the RSF, having previously encountered Colombian mercenaries in earlier conflicts.
The ongoing power struggle between the Sudanese army and the RSF escalated into an armed conflict in April 2023, coinciding with a stalled transition to civilian governance. This unrest has resulted in widespread displacement and a looming hunger crisis in the region. UN human rights chief Volker Turk issued a stark warning regarding the potential for increased starvation deaths and humanitarian disasters if the conflict continues unabated.
According to Turk, the situation in Sudan has devolved into the “world’s largest humanitarian catastrophe,” with millions displaced. Over 30 million people are in desperate need of humanitarian assistance, and famine has been reported in five areas, including the Zamzam displacement camp, with forecasts predicting additional areas may soon succumb to hunger.
In light of the deteriorating conditions, Turk expressed grave concerns about the risk of mass atrocity crimes occurring in Sudan. The Minister of Justice, Muawiya Osman, countered by blaming the RSF for instigating the conflict and obstructing humanitarian efforts, while accusing them of ethnic cleansing strategies in certain regions.
In summary, the escalating tensions between the Sudanese army and the RSF have resulted in dire humanitarian consequences in the region. Claims of intercepted military supplies spotlight the ongoing conflict dynamics, while escalating famine and displacement pose significant risks to civilian safety. With a growing call for intervention and support, the international community must recognize the urgent need to address the crisis in Sudan and deliver essential aid.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
