Qatar has reaffirmed its dedication to supporting Sudan’s security and stability amid a devastating humanitarian crisis following a year-long conflict. The meeting between Qatar’s Minister of State for International Cooperation and Sudan’s Acting Minister of Health aimed to strengthen bilateral relations and address the pressing humanitarian needs as millions require assistance. The ongoing violence has caused significant fatalities and displacements while hampering aid delivery, highlighting the urgent need for resolution and support.
On Sunday, Qatar’s Minister of State for International Cooperation, Lolwah Al Khater, reiterated the nation’s steadfast commitment to Sudan’s security and stability amidst the ongoing conflict that has wrought devastation throughout the country. This affirmation of support was made during a meeting held in Doha with Sudan’s Acting Federal Minister of Health, Dr. Haitham Mohamed Ibrahim, where the officials discussed the bilateral relations between their respective nations and strategies to bolster cooperation. In a statement released by Qatar’s foreign ministry, it was highlighted that Al Khater emphasized Qatar’s unwavering support for Sudan and its people, affirming the necessity of safeguarding Sudan’s security, maintaining the functionality of its official institutions, and ensuring the safety and integrity of its territories. The ongoing war in Sudan, now lasting over a year, erupted amid escalating tensions between the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese army, which is led by Abdel Fattah Al Burhan. Despite numerous mediation efforts—including interventions from the United States and Saudi Arabia—the conflict remains unresolved, resulting in severe humanitarian distress. The World Health Organization recently indicated that the conflict has resulted in over 20,000 fatalities, a figure that is likely an understatement of the actual loss of life. Currently, 24.8 million individuals face dire humanitarian needs, and the conflict has forced a staggering 10 million people to flee their homes while over two million have sought refuge in countries such as Libya, Egypt, and Chad. The humanitarian crisis is further exacerbated by disease outbreaks, including cholera, malaria, dengue fever, measles, and rubella. Moreover, despite pledges from the RSF and the Sudanese army during the U.S.-led discussions in Geneva in August to enable humanitarian access, the delivery of aid has been grossly inadequate. Last week, Doctors Without Borders (MSF) reported the halting of medical care for 5,000 malnourished children in North Darfur’s Zamzam camp due to obstruction by warring parties. MSF stated, “Despite hopeful announcements following peace talks in Geneva in mid-August, no significant amount of humanitarian aid has reached people in Zamzam camp nor in nearby El-Fasher since 1 August.” The humanitarian landscape remains bleak as all parties involved in the conflict must urgently facilitate aid delivery to those in dire need.
Sudan is engulfed in a severe conflict that initiated last year, primarily between the Rapid Support Forces and the national army, leading to widespread violence and humanitarian crises. Over 24.8 million people require urgent assistance, reflecting the magnitude of suffering caused by ongoing hostilities. There have been international efforts for mediation, particularly by the United States and Saudi Arabia, yet the situation remains precarious. With significant fatalities and displacement, the ongoing war has led to not only loss of life but also outbreaks of various diseases, complicating the humanitarian needs further. Furthermore, despite negotiations aimed at ensuring aid access, reports indicate a disappointing reality, where essential supplies and medical assistance are blocked from reaching those most vulnerable, including children and the displaced population.
In conclusion, Qatar’s commitment to supporting Sudan is underscored by Minister Al Khater’s recent statements highlighting the importance of stability and security in the war-torn nation. The humanitarian crisis continues to worsen, with millions in need of assistance and significant numbers displaced. The ongoing obstruction of aid delivery exacerbates the suffering experienced by the population, bringing urgent attention to the need for resolution and support from both local and international actors. Continued dialogue and cooperation will be essential to address the dire circumstances and facilitate much-needed humanitarian aid to Sudanese civilians.
Original Source: dohanews.co
