Civilians Endangered Amid Intensifying Conflict in Sudan’s Capital

Civilians in eastern Khartoum face severe dangers as conflict escalates between the Sudanese Armed Forces and Rapid Support Forces, according to the UN Human Rights Office. There are alarming reports of violence, looting, and civilian casualties. The humanitarian situation deteriorates further in Omdurman and North Darfur, with urgent calls for cessation of hostilities and protection of civilians.

The UN Human Rights Office (OHCHR) has reported a tragic toll on civilians in eastern Khartoum amid escalating violence between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary group Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Artillery shelling and aerial bombardments have resulted in numerous civilian fatalities, including humanitarian volunteers. The OHCHR has condemned this violence, emphasizing the significant impact on innocent lives.

There are credible reports of RSF fighters conducting raids in eastern Khartoum, where they have been involved in summary executions, arbitrary arrests, and the looting of crucial community supplies. Spokesperson Seif Magango mentioned concerning allegations of sexual violence occurring in the Al Giraif Gharb neighborhood. Concurrently, SAF-affiliated forces have also been implicated in similar illicit activities, especially in Khartoum North and East Nile, where arbitrary detentions are prevalent.

The humanitarian crisis in Omdurman and Khartoum continues to escalate, with residential areas being targeted. On Tuesday, a drone strike in East Khartoum’s Imtedaad Nasir area resulted in the deaths of five women and multiple injuries. Earlier, on Monday, artillery shells in Karari, north of Omdurman, claimed several lives and wounded over 40 individuals, including children. In light of this, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has urgently called for a halt to attacks on civilians and their properties.

In North Darfur, the humanitarian situation is similarly dire, with armed clashes near El Fasher leading to large-scale displacement towards Zamzam camp, which is currently besieged and facing potential famine. The OCHA has indicated that resources are severely limited and movement is impeded by checkpoints, leaving vulnerable populations cut off from essential aid. Security concerns have halted water trucking, heightening the risk of waterborne diseases within the camp.

In response to these deteriorating conditions, the UN and humanitarian organizations are emphasizing the critical need for all parties to prioritize civilian protection and facilitate safe humanitarian access. The OHCHR has urged both combatants and influential states to take decisive action to safeguard civilians and restore order, thereby addressing the lawlessness and impunity plaguing the region.

The ongoing conflict in Sudan, particularly in Khartoum and North Darfur, poses significant threats to civilian safety and humanitarian efforts. Reports of violence, looting, and arbitrary detentions necessitate urgent calls from the UN and humanitarian organizations for the protection of civilians and support for humanitarian access. The critical situation at Zamzam camp exemplifies the dire need for immediate humanitarian relief. Collective action is required to mitigate this crisis.

Original Source: www.miragenews.com