The conflict in Sudan has escalated into a severe humanitarian crisis, with millions displaced and thousands killed. MSF’s Christopher Lockyear highlights the disregard for civilian lives and inadequate international response, as violence by both military factions intensifies and affects humanitarian aid efforts.
The conflict in Sudan is described as “a war on people” by Christopher Lockyear, the Secretary General of Doctors Without Borders (MSF). Speaking to the UN Security Council, he emphasized that this prolonged humanitarian crisis has resulted in millions being uprooted and tens of thousands killed, as it approaches its third year.
Lockyear condemned the grave violence, stating that civilians continue to suffer under the relentless attacks. He noted the international community’s response has been inadequate, hampered by the obstructive actions of the warring factions and a lack of accountability and resources. He highlighted that the Sudanese Armed Forces have bombed densely populated areas indiscriminately.
Further, he indicated that the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and affiliated militias have committed horrific acts including systematic sexual violence, abductions, mass killings, and the looting of humanitarian supplies, while also occupying medical facilities. Since the conflict escalated in April 2023, over 12 million individuals have been displaced, according to the UN.
The conflict, initially triggered by disputes over the RSF’s integration into the national army, has splintered Sudan, with the SAF controlling the east and north while the RSF dominates western Darfur and the south. Both factions are accused of war crimes, worsening the humanitarian situation for civilians caught in the crossfire.
Lockyear lamented the fact that civilians are left vulnerable, saying, “While statements are made in this chamber, civilians remain unseen, unprotected, bombed, besieged, raped, displaced, deprived of food, of medical care, of dignity.” He criticized the faltering humanitarian response, which has been hindered by bureaucratic challenges and insecurity.
Due to the escalating violence, MSF recently suspended all operations in the famine-affected Zamzam camp for internally displaced persons, which is home to approximately 500,000 people.
In summary, the humanitarian crisis in Sudan remains severe as conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and Rapid Support Forces continues unabated, leading to mass displacement and suffering among civilians. The international response is criticized as insufficient, and the humanitarian situation deteriorates further as organizations like MSF are forced to suspend vital operations. Immediate and effective action is needed to address these challenges and protect civilian lives.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
