In just one week, the civilian death toll in Sudan has surged to at least 275, marking a threefold increase as violence escalates in South Kordofan and Blue Nile states. Humanitarian efforts are under threat, with aid workers facing intimidation and attacks, as shortages of medical supplies and food insecurity heighten. The UN has called for an end to attacks on civilians and accountability from conflict parties.
A stark escalation of violence in Sudan has led to a dramatic surge in the civilian death toll, with the United Nations Human Rights Office (OHCHR) reporting that at least 275 individuals were killed from January 31 to February 5. This equates to a threefold increase in casualties compared to the previous week, where at least 89 civilians lost their lives. The situation is exacerbated by intensifying conflicts in the South Kordofan and Blue Nile regions, prompting urgent humanitarian concerns as reported by UN Humanitarian Coordinator Clementine Nkweta-Salami.
The conflict has reached alarming levels this week, characterized by persistent artillery shelling, airstrikes, and aerial drone attacks that continue to devastate populated areas including Khartoum, along with North and South Darfur and Kordofan states. The capital of South Kordofan, Kadugli, has recorded at least 80 civilian casualties, with troubling reports of women and children being employed as human shields during these assaults. Furthermore, the violent atmosphere in the Blue Nile state is deteriorating, as mass mobilizations for conflict have emerged.
The sharp escalation in civilian deaths highlights the critical dangers faced by the civilian population amidst the ongoing conflict and the failure of involved parties to ensure their protection, as stated by OHCHR spokesperson Seif Magango. Humanitarian workers are also facing significant risks, with reports noting that some aid volunteers have been wrongly accused of collaborating with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), leading to intimidation and violence against them. Since the conflict erupted in April 2023, at least 57 members of a local volunteer network have been killed, underlining the alarming situation for humanitarian efforts.
In light of these developments, OHCHR has urgently called upon all parties to cease indiscriminate attacks and targeted violence against civilians. Mr. Magango emphasized that both the Sudanese Armed Forces and RSF, along with their allied factions and militias, must comply with their obligations under international law and take necessary steps to ensure the protection of civilians, including humanitarian personnel and human rights defenders.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan has led to a significant increase in civilian casualties, rising to 275 within a week, and raises alarming concerns regarding humanitarian safety. As violence intensifies and humanitarian crises deepen, the UN calls for immediate action to protect civilians and aid workers from escalating dangers. The international community must hold all parties accountable for their obligations to safeguard human lives amidst the turmoil.
Original Source: news.un.org
