UN Coordinator Condemns Escalating Violence in Aj Jazirah State, Sudan

The UN Humanitarian Coordinator for Sudan, Ms. Clementine Nkweta-Salami, expressed alarm over the escalating violence in Aj Jazirah State, where the Rapid Support Forces have carried out attacks resulting in civilian deaths and mass displacements. She condemned the human rights abuses and called for immediate protection for civilians during this humanitarian crisis.

The UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Sudan, Ms. Clementine Nkweta-Salami, recently voiced serious concerns regarding the surge of armed violence in Aj Jazirah State, which has resulted in numerous civilian casualties. In a press release dated October 26, she expressed her shock at the resurgence of human rights violations similar to those observed in Darfur last year, including rape, targeted assaults, sexual violence, and mass killings. Aj Jazirah State, located between the Blue Nile and White Nile in east-central Sudan, has faced a grave situation as preliminary reports from October 20 to 25 suggested that the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) conducted a significant attack throughout eastern Aj Jazirah. Nkweta-Salami detailed that RSF combatants indiscriminately shot at civilians, engaged in sexual violence against women and girls, looted markets and homes, and incinerated agricultural lands. The human cost has been severe, with residents from various villages, among them Safita Ghanoubab, Al-Hilaliya, and Al-Aziba, reportedly suffering physical assaults, humiliation, and threats, leading many to flee their homes in search of safety. Although the exact toll of civilian casualties remains to be determined, thousands of families have been displaced within Aj Jazirah State, while others have sought refuge in the neighboring states of Gedaref and Kassala. Humanitarian organizations are actively working to gather further information and provide assistance to the hundreds who have been affected by the escalating violence. Nkweta-Salami also underscored the principles of International Humanitarian Law, stating that it is imperative to protect civilians, civilian infrastructure, and public property from attacks. She declared, “It is unacceptable and must stop immediately. Civilians must be protected wherever they are.”

The situation in Sudan, particularly in regions like Aj Jazirah State, has been deteriorating amidst ongoing conflicts among various armed groups. The escalation of violence has resulted in significant human rights abuses, reminiscent of the atrocities in Darfur, raising alarms among humanitarian organizations and the international community. The UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator’s recent statements highlight the urgent need for attention to the crisis and protection for civilians caught in the crossfire of warring factions.

In summary, the situation in Aj Jazirah State is dire, with reports of grave human rights violations and a significant humanitarian crisis unfolding. The UN Coordinator’s condemnation of the violence underscores the need for immediate action to protect civilians and uphold international humanitarian laws. The continued displacement of families and the impact on vulnerable populations necessitate urgent humanitarian assistance and intervention to address the escalating conflict.

Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org