The UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the RSF militia’s attacks in Sudan’s Al Jazirah state, which have displaced over 135,000 civilians in ten days. He called for accountability for violations of humanitarian law, urged protection for civilians, and demanded unhindered access for humanitarian aid. The UN continues to assist the displaced population amidst a worsening humanitarian crisis, emphasizing the need for an immediate ceasefire.
The United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, has condemned the increasing assaults by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia in Sudan’s Al Jazirah state, as new reports indicate that over 135,000 civilians have been displaced within a mere span of ten days. In a statement made by the UN Spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, the Secretary-General expressed his horror at the staggering number of civilians killed, detained, and forced to flee due to the violence, alongside reports of sexual violence against women and girls, looting, and the destruction of agricultural land. He underscored the gravity of these actions, suggesting they may represent severe breaches of international humanitarian and human rights law, advocating for accountability for the perpetrators. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has voiced its deep concern regarding the civilians ensnared by ongoing hostilities and those compelled to evacuate their homes. Dujarric reiterated the importance of safeguarding civilians, whether they choose to relocate or remain in place, and ensuring their access to necessary humanitarian assistance. During a report to the press in New York, Dujarric noted that the International Organization for Migration (IOM) had recorded over 135,000 displaced individuals from various localities in Al Jazirah between October 20 and October 30. He detailed that more than half of these displaced persons have sought refuge in Gedaref state, while nearly one-third have moved to Kassala state. In light of the worsening humanitarian scenario, UN agencies and humanitarian collaborators, particularly local organizations and volunteers, are dedicated to delivering emergency support to new arrivals. This support includes family tracing, reunification services, and mental health assistance. Nevertheless, with hunger and disease on the rise and half of the population now requiring aid, Secretary-General Guterres has demanded that all involved parties ensure safe, rapid, and unobstructed access for humanitarian assistance to civilians in need through all available means. Guterres has reiterated his appeal for an immediate ceasefire and announced that his Personal Envoy will persist in engaging with all relevant stakeholders to reduce tensions and reinforce measures for civilian protection.
Sudan is currently experiencing a humanitarian crisis, exacerbated by violent conflicts primarily involving the RSF militia. The conditions in Al Jazirah state have deteriorated rapidly, leading to significant civilian displacement. The UN has been monitoring the situation closely, as it poses serious threats to the safety and well-being of the civilian population. The involvement of various humanitarian organizations highlights the urgency of addressing the needs of the displaced individuals and ensuring that effective measures are in place to protect vulnerable groups, including women and children, during such conflicts.
The United Nations has made clear its concerns regarding the plight of civilians in Sudan’s Al Jazirah state amidst escalating violence perpetrated by the RSF. The significant displacement of over 135,000 individuals, along with reports of grave human rights violations, underlines the urgency for immediate humanitarian access and a ceasefire. The UN remains committed to advocating for the protection of civilians and ensuring that humanitarian assistance reaches those in dire need, while also holding accountable those responsible for the ongoing violence.
Original Source: www.dailynewsegypt.com
