The United Nations has issued a stark warning about the surging civilian death toll in Sudan, urging warring factions to protect non-combatants.
General Abdel Fattah al Burhan’s army and the Rapid Support Forces have engaged in months of civil war in the country.
According to the UN Human Rights Office (OHCHR), at least 275 civilians were killed between January 31 and February 5 in relentless attacks.
The deaths resulted from artillery shelling, airstrikes, and drone assaults in Khartoum, North Darfur, South Darfur, North Kordofan, and South Kordofan.
This figure is more than three times the 89 civilian deaths recorded the previous week, signaling a grave escalation in violence.
OHCHR emphasized that the actual number of casualties is likely much higher than the documented figures suggest.
“The sharp increase in civilian deaths underscores the dire risks civilians face amid the failure to protect them,” said spokesman Seif Magango.
“Indiscriminate attacks, as well as direct threats against civilians, must cease immediately,” he urged in a firm call for restraint.
The UN has demanded that both sides to uphold international laws protecting civilians.
The ongoing war, which erupted in April 2023, has killed tens of thousands and displaced 12 million people, worsening a deepening humanitarian crisis.
