The UN has condemned reported civilian executions in Sudan as humanitarian conditions worsen, particularly with rising starvation rates. The conflict, ongoing since April 2023, has elicited international concern for the safety of civilians in various regions. The UN urges all parties to comply with international obligations to protect civilian lives amid escalating violence.
The UN Secretary-General has expressed grave concern regarding the reports of summary executions of civilians in Khartoum North, attributed to fighters and militias connected to the military Government. It is believed that many of these victims originate from the Darfur and Kordofan regions. Stéphane Dujarric, the Secretary-General’s spokesperson, reminded all conflicting parties of their obligations under international law to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan, which began in April 2023, has seen government forces clash with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), their former allies-turned-rivals. The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, condemned the atrocities, labeling the war as increasingly perilous for civilians amidst rising reports of ethnic killings. Efforts are underway by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights to verify these alarming reports.
Civilian attacks are escalating in Sudan, as evidenced by a recent strike on a market in Omdurman that resulted in at least 60 fatalities and over 150 injuries. Civilian casualties have also increased in North Kordofan and the Darfur regions. OCHA has issued warnings regarding a spike in fatalities, particularly following assaults on the Abu Shouk displacement camp, experiencing dire famine conditions since December.
The food crisis in Sudan has deepened, with reports indicating over 70 hunger-related deaths primarily affecting children in Khartoum State. In January, more than 1,100 severe malnutrition cases were documented in Omdurman neighborhoods, signifying an urgent need for food aid. Access restrictions have exacerbated malnutrition rates, especially where community kitchens have been forced to close.
Mr. Dujarric reiterated the critical necessity for increased funding and logistical resources to maintain nutrition programs and support community kitchens to ensure vulnerable populations, including children and the elderly, receive adequate food and healthcare. As the humanitarian situation deteriorates, the UN calls for all parties involved to safeguard civilians and grant access to essential relief.
The conflict in Sudan has led to widespread violence and humanitarian crises, particularly impacting civilians in regions like Darfur and Kordofan. International organizations, including the UN, are closely monitoring the situation, documenting violations of human rights and the increasing casualties due to ongoing hostilities. The summarization of civilian suffering amid warfare illustrates the urgent need for intervention and support to alleviate the dire conditions faced by the population.
The situation in Sudan remains critical, with reports of civilian executions and rising starvation rates highlighting the urgent need for humanitarian assistance and international intervention. Calls from the UN emphasize the necessity for all parties to adhere to their responsibilities under international law and protect civilians from the devastating consequences of the ongoing conflict. The humanitarian crisis demands immediate action to prevent further escalation and suffering among the Sudanese people.
Original Source: news.un.org
