The conflict in Sudan is described as a devastating “war on people” by MSF leader Christopher Lockyear. He addressed the UN Security Council, emphasizing the death toll and displacement caused by the violence. Lockyear criticized the inadequate international response and detailed the severe humanitarian crisis, including recent suspensions of aid operations due to escalating violence.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan is characterized as “a war on people,” according to Christopher Lockyear, the Secretary General of Doctors Without Borders (MSF). As this humanitarian crisis approaches its third year, he emphasized to the UN Security Council that the relentless violence has resulted in the displacement of millions and the deaths of tens of thousands.
Mr. Lockyear condemned the conflict’s continuation, asserting that it is waged with “shameless disregard for civilian lives.” He criticized the international response as inadequate, citing obstructions by the warring factions and a lack of accountability, resources, and leadership.
He highlighted the actions of the Sudanese Armed Forces, which have reportedly bombed densely populated areas indiscriminately. The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and allied militias have been accused of committing numerous acts of brutality, including sexual violence, abductions, mass killings, looting humanitarian supplies, and occupying medical facilities.
The violence, which escalated in April 2023, has seen Sudan fragmented into territories controlled by the Sudanese Armed Forces in the east and north, and the RSF in western Darfur and southern regions. Both groups face accusations of war crimes.
Mr. Lockyear poignantly stated, “While statements are made in this chamber, civilians remain unseen, unprotected, bombed, besieged, raped, displaced, deprived of food, of medical care, of dignity.” He lamented that humanitarian efforts are paralyzed by bureaucracy, insecurity, and an impending large-scale divestment in humanitarian aid.
The violence has severely impacted humanitarian efforts, leading MSF to suspend all operations in the Zamzam camp, which is currently housing approximately 500,000 internally displaced persons suffering from famine.
In summary, the conflict in Sudan represents a significant humanitarian crisis, described as a war on civilians. The reports from MSF underline the devastating impact of the violence on the civilian population, emphasizing the urgent need for a comprehensive international response and accountability. The challenges faced by aid organizations highlight the critical situation that continues to unfold as millions suffer in silence amid bureaucratic hindrances and insecurity.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
