‘Protect civilians’ amid conflict in El Fasher, famine-hit Sudan: UN Secretary-General
Clashes between the Sudanese Armed Forces, Rapid Support Forces and elements of the Armed Struggle Movement in El Fasher have left civilians in the crossfire of a conflict that erupted in April 2023 by rival military forces.
“These clashes have had devastating consequences for civilians,” Farhan Haq said in a statement.
“The fighting will also exacerbate humanitarian needs in and around El Fasher at a time when famine has been confirmed in Zamzam camp south of El Fasher and is likely occurring in other displacement sites in the city.”
The global food monitoring initiative, the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), has declare famine in camp on August 1.
‘Allow civilians to travel safely’
“The Secretary-General calls on all parties to comply with their obligations under international humanitarian law to protect and allow safe passage of civilians, and to facilitate prompt and unhindered humanitarian access,” Mr. Haq said.
The UN Secretary-General also reiterated his call for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a lasting ceasefire, and urged the parties to return to political dialogue as the only path to a negotiated solution, the deputy spokesman for the UN Secretary-General said.
“The United Nations remains committed to supporting international mediation efforts and working with all parties involved to help bring an end to the war,” Mr. Haq said.
