The WFP announced the deaths of three staff members in an aerial bombardment in Sudan, describing their outrage over the incident. This attack occurred during a time of ongoing conflict between the Sudanese military and paramilitary forces, exacerbating the region’s humanitarian crisis, which threatens millions with famine.
The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) reported on Friday that three of its personnel were killed in an aerial bombardment that occurred the previous day in Sudan. In an official statement, the WFP expressed its outrage, stating, “WFP is outraged by the killing of three of its staff members in an aerial bombardment in Sudan on December 19, 2024.” The agency also confirmed that a field office was targeted during the attack and indicated that they are actively gathering further information. Unfortunately, a WFP spokesperson did not provide additional details when contacted for comment by AFP.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan has persisted since April 2023, primarily involving the Sudanese army led by de facto ruler Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), commanded by his former deputy, Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo. This turmoil has exacerbated the humanitarian situation, with the WFP recently warning that Sudan could potentially experience the largest hunger crisis in modern history, affecting approximately 1.7 million individuals who are either facing famine or at risk of entering famine conditions.
Sudan has been engulfed in a violent conflict since April 2023, resulting from power struggles between government forces and paramilitary factions. The WFP has been operating in Sudan amidst this crisis, focusing on alleviating food scarcity and providing essential humanitarian aid. The ongoing violence not only jeopardizes the lives of civilians but also inhibits humanitarian organizations’ ability to function effectively, further complicating an already dire situation. Reports from the WFP indicate a looming humanitarian catastrophe, threatening millions with starvation.
The killing of WFP staff members in Sudan highlights the severe and dangerous conditions faced by humanitarian workers in conflict zones. This incident underscores the broader humanitarian crisis unfolding in Sudan as violence continues to impede essential aid efforts. With millions at risk of famine, international attention and effective responses are critical to address the mounting food insecurity and protect those attempting to provide relief in this turbulent region.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
