Civilians in Khartoum, Sudan are facing increasing violence as hostilities escalate between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, according to OHCHR. Reports reveal summary killings, detentions, and looting impacting humanitarian efforts, while conditions in North Darfur are dire. Urgent calls for protection and humanitarian access are being made by the UN and OCHA.
The United Nations Human Rights Office (OHCHR) reported on Thursday that the intensifying hostilities in Khartoum, Sudan, have resulted in the deaths of numerous civilians, including humanitarian workers, due to artillery strikes and aerial bombardments. The ongoing conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary group, Rapid Support Forces (RSF), continues to severely affect the civilian population.
There are credible reports of RSF fighters along with allied militias committing violent acts in eastern Khartoum, including summary executions, arbitrary detentions, and theft from community kitchens and medical facilities. Additionally, OHCHR spokesperson Seif Magango highlighted “worrying allegations of sexual violence” from the Al Giraif Gharb neighbourhood. SAF-affiliated forces have also reported looting in Khartoum North and East Nile where arbitrary arrests are prevalent.
The humanitarian crisis in Omdurman and Khartoum is rapidly worsening, with residential areas increasingly being attacked. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) documented that a recent drone strike in East Khartoum resulted in the death of five women and left many injured. Additionally, artillery fire in Karari led to multiple fatalities and injuries, including children. OCHA has urgently called for a halt to assaults on civilians and civilian infrastructure.
In North Darfur, the situation is severe as armed clashes near El Fasher have displaced thousands to the Zamzam camp, which faces famine and is under siege. Resources are critically limited, and checkpoints are hindering aid delivery, exacerbating the plight of vulnerable populations. Water trucking has been halted, increasing the risk of disease.
Given the deteriorating circumstances, the UN and humanitarian agencies implore all involved parties to prioritize civilian protection and grant safe access to humanitarian assistance. The OHCHR has emphasized the necessity for both warring factions and influential states to undertake substantial measures to protect civilians and address the ongoing lawlessness and impunity.
In summary, the conflict in Sudan, particularly in Khartoum and North Darfur, has led to significant civilian casualties and a substantial humanitarian crisis. Reports of violence, looting, and sexual assault highlight the urgent need for protective measures. The international community and humanitarian organizations continue to call for a ceasefire and unimpeded access to aid for affected populations.
Original Source: news.un.org
