Sudan’s SPLM-N blames SAF for airstrike killing UN workers

The Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N), led by Abdelaziz al-Hilu, has accused General al-Burhan’s forces (SAF) of conducting an airstrike that killed three World Food Programme (WFP) employees in Yabus, a region under the group’s control in Blue Nile state.

Speaking to Darfur24, SPLM-N media head Qamar Dalman claimed the SAF deliberately targeted the aid workers, suggesting the attack was part of SAF’s refusal to acknowledge famine conditions in SPLM-N-held areas.

Dalman also criticized the WFP’s statement on the incident, calling it “vague” and urging the organization to hold the SAF accountable. He described the strike as a direct attack on civilians in rebel-controlled territories, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian crisis. The SPLM-N previously declared famine in its areas due to worsening agricultural conditions caused by ongoing conflict.

Sudan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs denied any military activity in Yabus and announced plans for a thorough investigation into the incident.

Meanwhile, UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed profound regret over the deaths, warning that 2024 could become one of the deadliest years for aid workers in Sudan amid escalating challenges to humanitarian efforts.

The SPLM-N’s allegations come against the backdrop of Sudan’s broader conflict, which has left millions displaced and sparked severe food insecurity in war-torn regions.

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