A 13-year-old Sudanese boy injured by shrapnel. UN chief concerned about developments in El Fasher, Sudan Peace and Security
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed concern about the developments in El Fasher, North Darfur, Sudan, where heavy fighting is ongoing. Deputy Spokesman Farhan Haq made the statement on behalf of the UN chief.
Civilians are caught in the crossfire amid clashes between the Sudanese Armed Forces, the Rapid Reaction Forces and the forces of the Armed Struggle Movements.
“These clashes are devastating consequences for the civilian population,” Farhan Haq said in a statement.
He added that the fighting will also worsen the humanitarian situation in El Fasher and its surroundings, while famine has already been confirmed in the Zamzam refugee camp south of the city.
Protection of civilians
“The Secretary-General calls on all parties to respect their obligations under international humanitarian law to protect civilians and ensure their safe movement,” Haque said. The statement emphasized the need to ensure unhindered humanitarian access in El Fasher.
The UN chief also again called on the parties to immediately cease hostilities and return to political dialogue as the only path to resolving the conflict.
“The United Nations remains committed to supporting international mediation efforts and cooperation with all relevant stakeholders,” Haque said.
Read also: