The UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, Ms. Clementine Nkweta-Salami, has condemned the escalating violence in Aj Jazirah State, Sudan, highlighting severe human rights violations and the impact on civilians. Reports indicate indiscriminate shootings, sexual violence, lootings, and mass displacement due to attacks by the Rapid Support Forces. Humanitarian partners are mobilizing to assist thousands of displaced individuals, while the UN calls for immediate compliance with International Humanitarian Law to protect civilians.
The increasing violence in Aj Jazirah State, Sudan, has prompted a strong condemnation from the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, Ms. Clementine Nkweta-Salami. In her statement released on October 26, she expressed profound concern regarding the escalation of armed confrontations which have reportedly resulted in numerous civilian casualties. Ms. Nkweta-Salami expressed her shock at the recurrence of human rights violations reminiscent of last year’s atrocities in Darfur, including sexual violence, targeted assaults, and mass killings. Preliminary reports from between October 20 and 25 indicated significant attacks by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) throughout eastern Aj Jazirah, characterized by indiscriminate shootings of civilians, acts of sexual violence against women and girls, extensive looting, and arson of agricultural lands. Moreover, the residents of several villages, such as Safita Ghanoubab, Al-Hilaliya, and Al-Aziba, have faced physical assaults and intimidation, compelling many civilians to flee for their safety. The humanitarian situation remains dire, with thousands displaced within Aj Jazirah and to neighboring Gedaref and Kassala states. Despite the ongoing challenges, humanitarian partners are mobilizing efforts to assist the affected populations and gather further information regarding the violence. Ms. Nkweta-Salami emphasized the imperative of protecting civilians under International Humanitarian Law, firmly stating, “It is unacceptable and must stop immediately. Civilians must be protected wherever they are.”
The situation in Aj Jazirah State is part of the broader context of armed conflict in Sudan, particularly following the resurgence of violence in various regions, including Darfur. Aj Jazirah, located between the Blue Nile and White Nile, has seen an alarming increase in human rights violations, similar to those previously documented in other conflict-affected areas. The role of armed groups, such as the Rapid Support Forces, has been instrumental in perpetuating violence against civilian populations, leading to significant humanitarian crises characterized by displacement and insecurity.
In summary, the escalating violence in Aj Jazirah State is a grave concern for humanity, with reports indicating severe human rights violations and significant civilian casualties. The UN’s call for immediate action to protect civilians underscores the need for adherence to international humanitarian standards and the urgent requirement for assistance to those in distress. Effective intervention is critical to halt the ongoing atrocities and provide relief to displaced populations.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
