Senior officials from over 30 countries and international bodies on Thursday called for an urgent end to fighting in Sudan. A joint statement warned that hundreds of thousands of civilians remain trapped without food, water, or medical care as fighting between the Rapid Support Forces and General Abdel Fattah al Burhan’s forces continues relentlessly.
“All parties to the conflict are responsible for protecting civilians,” the statement said, adding, “This cannot continue.” Top officials from the UK, Canada, Spain, Norway, Sweden, and the EU noted that trade routes and supply lines have been blocked, leaving humanitarian organisations unable to deliver lifesaving aid for over a year.
Famine has spread and threatens to worsen during the current lean season, the statement warned. More than 60 people reportedly died from malnutrition last week, while rising cholera cases amplify the devastating effects of starvation.
The officials condemned “horrific violations” of international law, citing sexual violence, attacks on hospitals and markets, and mass killings in displacement camps, including 1,500 deaths in Zamzam and 40 in Abu Shouk. “We stand with the people of Sudan and humanitarian organisations working tirelessly under extremely challenging conditions,” it concluded, emphasising that civilians must be protected and accountability ensured.
