The conflict in Sudan’s capital, Khartoum, is increasingly impacting civilians, with artillery shelling and aerial attacks reported. The UN has condemned the violence perpetrated by both the Sudanese Armed Forces and paramilitary groups, highlighting summary executions, looting, and a growing humanitarian crisis. Conditions in camps like Zamzam are dire, with urgent calls for the protection of civilians and humanitarian access.
Recent reports from the UN Human Rights Office (OHCHR) indicate that escalating violence between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has resulted in significant civilian casualties in Eastern Khartoum. Many, including humanitarian workers, have been killed due to artillery shelling and airstrikes, prompting condemnation from the UN. The OHCHR highlights alarming incidents of RSF fighters raiding homes, committing summary executions, arbitrary detentions, and looting medical resources.
Furthermore, spokesperson Seif Magango noted concerning allegations of sexual violence occurring in the Al Giraif Gharb neighborhood. SAF-affiliated groups have similarly engaged in looting and unlawful arrests in Khartoum North (Bahri) and East Nile, exacerbating the crisis further.
The humanitarian situation in Omdurman and Khartoum is deteriorating sharply. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported drone strikes and artillery shelling in residential areas, leading to multiple deaths and injuries, including children. OCHA emphasizes the urgent need for parties to cease targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure.
Conditions beyond Khartoum are also alarming, particularly in North Darfur. Armed conflicts near El Fasher have displaced thousands to underserved camps like Zamzam, which is currently under siege and at risk of famine. Access to essential resources is severely limited, and water deliveries have been suspended, further heightening risks of disease outbreaks.
In response to the escalating conflict, both the UN and humanitarian organizations are calling for the protection of civilians and the delivery of humanitarian aid. The OHCHR urges both conflict parties and influential nations to take decisive measures to safeguard civilians and address ongoing lawlessness and lack of accountability.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan, particularly in Khartoum and North Darfur, poses severe threats to civilian safety and humanitarian access. Reports of violence, looting, and sexual assaults by both SAF and RSF highlight the dire need for ceasefire and protection efforts. Additionally, the humanitarian situation in refugee camps worsens due to resource shortages, necessitating immediate international intervention to alleviate the crisis and provide essential support to those affected.
Original Source: www.miragenews.com
