The United Nations is urging warring factions in Sudan to lay down arms and protect civilians during the upcoming Muslim holy month of Ramadan.
This plea comes as the conflict, which began in April 2023, approaches its one-year mark.
“Sudan is barreling toward a full year of war,” stated Martin Griffiths, UN under-secretary-general for humanitarian affairs.
He stressed the urgency of a ceasefire, highlighting a recent Security Council resolution calling for a cessation of hostilities during Ramadan.
Despite international pressure, fighting continues.
“This is a moment of truth,” Griffiths asserted. He demanded that all parties “silence the guns, protect civilians and ensure humanitarian access.”
The conflict pits Sudan’s military, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, against rival Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
According to UN figures, the year-long war has resulted in a devastating humanitarian crisis, leaving at least 13,900 people dead and displacing over eight million.
Several ceasefire attempts brokered by regional and international powers have unfortunately failed to bring an end to the violence.
