France Calls for Ceasefire in Sudan and Increases Humanitarian Aid to Chad

France’s Foreign Minister urged an end to international support for warring factions in Sudan during a visit to Chad, highlighting the humanitarian crisis resulting from the conflict. With tens of thousands dead and over 11 million displaced, the situation calls for immediate action and aid to affected populations, including an additional pledge of 7 million euros for Chad.

In a recent visit to refugee camps in Chad, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot urged international stakeholders to cease their support for the conflicting factions engaged in Sudan’s civil war. Since April 2023, Sudan has been embroiled in intense conflict between the army, led by General Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, and the Rapid Support Forces under General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, both accused of severe war crimes including targeting civilians.

The ongoing turmoil has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and displaced over 11 million individuals, with 2.1 million fleeing the country. An alarming report from the United Nations estimates that more than 25 million people, representing over half of Sudan’s population, are currently facing acute food insecurity.

Minister Barrot criticized Russia’s recent veto of a UN resolution advocating for a ceasefire and the safeguarding of civilians, stating, “Russia has abandoned the Sudanese and unveiled its relationship with Africa, a relationship based on greed, cynicism and hypocrisy.”

Approximately 1.5 million Sudanese refugees have crossed into Chad, which has a population of 20 million. Minister Barrot called for the Sudanese Armed Forces to maintain the Adre crossing, which is the sole access point to the famine-affected Darfur region, and to eliminate bureaucratic obstacles hindering humanitarian aid delivery. Additionally, he implored the Rapid Support Forces to refrain from looting and obstructing humanitarian efforts.

Chad’s Foreign Minister, Abderaman Koulamallah, emphasized the nation’s neutral stance in the conflict, stressing their interest in achieving peace in Sudan. Barrot announced a pledge of an additional 7 million euros ($7.4 million) in aid aimed at combating cholera and supporting vulnerable populations in Chad, on top of a previous commitment of $110 million made in April. Despite pledges totaling over $2 billion for Sudan, significant concerns remain regarding the effective distribution of such humanitarian assistance.

The civil war in Sudan began in April 2023, primarily between the Sudanese armed forces and the Rapid Support Forces, resulting in widespread violence, war crimes, and a humanitarian crisis. The conflict has led to enormous displacement and severe food shortages across the country. The international community has grappled with how best to support the Sudanese population behind the escalating human toll, prompting calls for ceasefires and aid from various nations, particularly in neighboring countries like Chad that are hosting large numbers of refugees.

The urgent plea from France for an end to foreign support for warring factions in Sudan highlights the critical need for a humanitarian ceasefire amidst a growing crisis. The pledge of increased aid to Chad signifies a continued commitment to assist those affected by the conflict. The statements reflecting criticism of Russia’s involvement illustrate the complexities of international dynamics surrounding this humanitarian disaster. Effective distribution of aid remains a prominent concern as various nations attempt to address the dire situation in Sudan.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com