The UN reports an alarming rise in civilian casualties in Sudan, with 275 deaths documented from January 31 to February 5 due to fighting. This is a threefold increase from the previous week, with humanitarian volunteers also facing severe risks. Immediate action is demanded to protect civilians and cease indiscriminate attacks as groups continue to clash, raising serious humanitarian concerns.
The UN Human Rights Office has reported a worrying rise in civilian casualties in Sudan amid escalating hostilities between rival factions. Between January 31 and February 5, at least 275 civilians were killed, primarily due to artillery shelling, airstrikes, and drone attacks in areas including Khartoum and various Darfur regions. This marks a threefold increase compared to the previous week, highlighting grave risks faced by civilians due to ongoing conflict.
Local humanitarian volunteer organizations are increasingly targeted, with credible reports of volunteer names being linked to accusations of collaboration with the Rapid Support Forces. Recently, one volunteer received a death threat, and since the conflict began in April 2023, at least 57 members of these networks have been killed. The situation raises severe concerns about the safety of humanitarian missions in affected areas.
The UN calls for an immediate cessation of indiscriminate attacks and threats against civilians. The Sudanese Armed Forces and Rapid Support Forces, alongside their allied militias, are urged to comply with international obligations and actively ensure the protection of civilians, including humanitarian workers and human rights defenders, to mitigate tragic losses and restore safety.
The conflict in Sudan has resulted in a significant humanitarian crisis, particularly with rising civilian casualties since the onset of hostilities in April 2023. Various regions, including Khartoum and Darfur, have seen intense fighting, resulting in indiscriminate attacks on non-combatants. Local humanitarian workers have been put at risk, complicating efforts to deliver aid and support to affected populations as violence escalates due to power struggles between rival groups. The UN Human Rights Office serves as an essential monitor of the human rights situation in conflict zones, documenting these casualties and advocating for the protection of civilians. Reports highlight the urgent need for accountability and adherence to international humanitarian law to safeguard vulnerable populations caught in conflict.
In summary, the civilian death toll in Sudan has reached alarming levels, with a threefold increase in casualties reported in just one week. Humanitarian workers face escalating threats that jeopardize their ability to provide essential services. The UN emphasizes the necessity for immediate measures to cease attacks against civilians and to protect vulnerable populations. The current situation underscores an urgent need for action to ensure compliance with international humanitarian standards to safeguard human life.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
