UN Warns of Escalating Humanitarian Crisis in Sudan
The United Nations has issued a stark warning regarding the escalating civil war in Sudan, which has resulted in thousands of deaths and the displacement of millions. The conflict, primarily between the Sudanese army led by Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) under Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (Hemedti), has intensified, with reports of horrific massacres and widespread sexual violence. UN officials have expressed grave concerns about the lack of willingness from both sides to engage in negotiations, indicating a preference for military solutions.
Ramesh Rajasingham, Director of the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, reported to the Security Council that the ongoing violence threatens to escalate further, exacerbating the dire humanitarian situation. With the rainy season ending, both factions are resuming military operations, leading to increased recruitment and attacks. The Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs, Rosemary DiCarlo, condemned the influx of weapons into Sudan, implicating some allies in the ongoing violence.
Humanitarian Impact and International Response
The humanitarian crisis in Sudan is reaching catastrophic levels, with approximately 26 million people—nearly half of the population—facing food insecurity. The UN Development Program has highlighted that the conflict, now in its 19th month, has severely deteriorated economic and social conditions, with access to health services plummeting from 78% to just 15.5%. The number of displaced individuals has surpassed 14 million, marking the largest displacement crisis globally this year.
Despite some humanitarian aid reaching the country, including over 300 trucks that crossed the Adré border from Chad, the assistance remains insufficient, particularly in conflict-affected areas. The health crisis is compounded by the spread of diseases like cholera, which has claimed over 800 lives and infected approximately 28,000 people. As international pressure mounts for both sides to cease hostilities and engage in peace talks, human rights organizations are urging the UN Security Council to take decisive action to alleviate the suffering in Sudan.
