The ongoing conflict in Khartoum, Sudan, between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces has led to significant civilian casualties and worsening humanitarian conditions. This violence includes artillery shelling, aerial bombardments, looting, and allegations of sexual violence. The humanitarian crisis extends to North Darfur, where civilians face severe shortages and are cut off from aid. Urgent calls for de-escalation and the protection of civilians persist amidst growing chaos.
The United Nations Human Rights Office (OHCHR) reported on Thursday that numerous civilians, including humanitarian volunteers, have fallen victim to escalating violence in Khartoum, Sudan. The ongoing conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has resulted in civilian casualties due to artillery shelling and air raids. Reports indicate that RSF fighters have conducted home invasions in eastern Khartoum, committing summary executions, arbitrary detentions, and looting essential supplies from local kitchens and clinics.
In addition, the OHCHR spokesperson, Seif Magango, warned of disturbing allegations regarding sexual violence occurring in the Al Giraif Gharb neighborhood. SAF-affiliated fighters have also participated in looting operations in Khartoum North and East Nile, where numerous arbitrary arrests have been reported, further exacerbating the crisis.
The humanitarian situation in Omdurman and Khartoum continues to deteriorate, as residential areas experience increasing attacks. A recent drone strike in the Imtedaad Nasir area of East Khartoum resulted in the deaths of five women, with many others injured. Additionally, an artillery strike in Karari, located north of Omdurman, caused multiple fatalities and injuries, including children. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) urges all factions to avoid targeting civilians and crucial infrastructure.
Outside of Khartoum, the conditions in North Darfur are equally alarming, especially in El Fasher, where armed conflicts have displaced thousands toward Zamzam camp, currently under siege. OCHA emphasizes that the camp suffers from severe shortages of resources and services, coupled with checkpoints restricting civilian mobility and hindering access to essential aid. Water supply operations have been halted due to security concerns, raising the risk of waterborne diseases within the camp.
The worsening situation compels the UN and humanitarian organizations to advocate for the prioritization of civilian protection and the facilitation of humanitarian aid access. The OHCHR reaffirms its calls for both combatant factions and influential nations to implement concrete measures to safeguard civilians and curtail the prevailing lawlessness and impunity in Sudan.
The escalating violence in Khartoum and its surrounding areas has resulted in significant civilian casualties and deteriorating humanitarian conditions. The operations of both the SAF and RSF have severely impacted the safety of local populations, prompting urgent international calls for the protection of civilians and unhindered humanitarian access. With conditions worsening in regions such as North Darfur, it is imperative for all parties involved to prioritize de-escalation measures and facilitate essential aid delivery.
Original Source: www.miragenews.com
