The UK has condemned the escalating violence in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, highlighting severe humanitarian issues caused by the prolonged conflicts. Foreign Secretary David Lammy emphasized the impact on civilians and the need for urgent international attention and action to address these crises.
The United Kingdom has issued a stern condemnation of the escalating violence in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), referring to the crises as among the most significant humanitarian disasters in contemporary history. Foreign Secretary David Lammy delivered this statement in Parliament, emphasizing the severe conditions in Sudan, where an ongoing conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has endured for a period of 21 months.
Recent violent actions have heightened concerns, particularly after RSF forces targeted the last operational hospital in El-Fasher, resulting in the death of at least 70 patients and their caregivers, as reported by the World Health Organization (WHO). Lammy denounced the RSF’s shelling of the Zamzam camp for internally displaced persons and documented incidents of extrajudicial killings by SAF-aligned militias in Wad Madani, stressing the blatant violation of international humanitarian law.
During Lammy’s recent visit to the Chad-Sudan border, he witnessed the hardships faced by refugees, primarily consisting of women and children, which accounted for 88% of those displaced. He shared a harrowing account of a woman he met, who displayed her scars from violence, including severe burns and rape.
The situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is equally alarming, as conflict has escalated in the eastern region, with M23 rebels entering Goma, a significant city, for the first time in over a decade. Tragically, this offensive has resulted in the deaths of UN peacekeepers from South Africa, Malawi, and Uruguay, while numerous civilians have been forced to flee their homes, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation.
Moreover, this conflict heightens the risks posed to women and children in the region, with reports indicating horrific acts of violence against minors. Lammy criticized the global community for neglecting these crises and called for a unified approach to address the apparent inequity in international focus on conflicts.
He urged for immediate action, advocating for a ceasefire in Sudan, unimpeded humanitarian aid, and a permanent United Nations presence. Accompanying this moral appeal, the UK government updated its travel advice, warning citizens to steer clear of conflict zones near the Rwandan border close to Goma. Lammy underscored the necessity for global awareness and concerted efforts to support those suffering due to inaction amidst ongoing warfare.
The ongoing conflicts in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo have led to catastrophic humanitarian conditions, affecting millions of people, especially women and children. The conflict in Sudan has persisted for over 21 months, primarily between the SAF and RSF, resulting in widespread violence and displacement. In the DRC, the resurgence of armed groups and instability has raised alarms regarding the safety of civilians, particularly during humanitarian crises. The UK government’s response reflects broader concerns regarding international inaction and the need for urgent humanitarian assistance.
In conclusion, the UK government’s condemnation of the conflicts in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo highlights the pressing need for international intervention in these humanitarian crises. The reports of violence, especially against vulnerable populations, underscore the importance of global awareness and action. Urgent measures, including a ceasefire and humanitarian support, are essential to alleviate the suffering of those affected.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
