UN Condemns Attacks by RSF in Al Jazirah State, Urges Protection for Civilians

The UN Secretary-General has condemned the RSF militia’s attacks in Sudan’s Al Jazirah state, resulting in the displacement of over 135,000 civilians within ten days. The UN emphasizes the need for accountability, protection of civilians, and immediate humanitarian aid amidst the escalating crisis.

The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed profound concern over the intensifying violence perpetrated by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia in Sudan’s Al Jazirah state. Reports indicate that over 135,000 civilians have been forcibly displaced in a mere ten days due to these escalating attacks. In a statement made by UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric, it was conveyed that the Secretary-General is alarmed by the high instances of civilian casualties, arbitrary detentions, and displacement, not to mention the alarming acts of sexual violence against women and girls, alongside the looting of properties and destruction of farmland. The Secretary-General cautioned that such actions may represent grave breaches of international humanitarian and human rights laws, asserting that those responsible for these violations must be held accountable. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) voiced its “deep concern” regarding the plight of civilians caught in the crossfire and those compelled to flee their homes. Dujarric underscored that all civilians deserve protection, whether they choose to relocate or remain, and must have unimpeded access to necessary humanitarian aid. At a recent press briefing in New York, Dujarric reported from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) that the numbers of displaced individuals from various locations in Al Jazirah between October 20 and 30 have exceeded 135,000. Over half of those displaced have sought refuge in Gedaref state, while nearly one-third have arrived in Kassala state. In response to the deteriorating humanitarian situation, UN agencies and humanitarian partners, which notably include local organizations and volunteers, are mobilizing resources to provide emergency support to new arrivals. This includes family tracing, reunification services, and mental health assistance, as the threat of hunger and diseases looms large over the affected regions. With half of the population in need of aid, the Secretary-General insists that all parties involved in the conflict must ensure safe, rapid, and unrestricted humanitarian access to civilians. He reiterated his demand for an immediate ceasefire and announced that his Personal Envoy would persist in engaging with relevant stakeholders in efforts to de-escalate the situation and enhance measures for civilian protection.

The ongoing conflict in Sudan has led to widespread violence and disregard for civilian safety, particularly in regions like Al Jazirah state. The Rapid Support Forces, originally formed to combat insurgents, have emerged as a powerful militia, often clashing with government forces and committing egregious violations against civilians. The United Nations has been closely monitoring the situation and responding to the humanitarian crisis, as tens of thousands are affected by forced displacement and loss of livelihoods due to ongoing violence. With a significant percentage of the population now pushed into desperate need of humanitarian assistance, international attention on the crisis has increased.

The United Nations has condemned the violent actions of the RSF militia in Sudan’s Al Jazirah state, highlighting the tragic displacement of over 135,000 civilians in just ten days. The Secretary-General has called for accountability and the necessity of immediate humanitarian access to those in need, stressing that civilians must be safeguarded amidst the ongoing violence. Furthermore, the UN continues to pursue diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving a ceasefire and reinforcing protection for those affected by the conflict.

Original Source: www.dailynewsegypt.com