The UN humanitarian chief has urged for immediate international support for the ongoing crisis in Sudan, which has displaced over 11 million people and resulted in tens of thousands of deaths due to warfare between the national army and paramilitary forces. Tom Fletcher’s recent visit highlighted the critical need for aid as nearly 26 million people face starvation.
The United Nations humanitarian chief has issued a call for urgent global intervention in response to the escalating humanitarian crisis in Sudan. During a recent nine-day trip to Sudan and Chad, Tom Fletcher engaged with refugees, emphasizing the importance of their stories and the need for international assistance. He conveyed a message from those impacted, asserting, “We are not invisible.” Since April 2023, Sudan has been embroiled in conflict between the national army, led by Abdel-Fattah al-Burhan, and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, commanded by Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, resulting in substantial loss of life and displacement of millions.
The ongoing violence has claimed tens of thousands of lives and forced over 11 million people from their homes, constituting one of the gravest humanitarian crises in recent memory. On a visit to El-Geneina, the capital of West Darfur, Mr. Fletcher met with local officials and refugees, hearing poignant accounts from those fleeing the turmoil. He noted, “It is a tough situation out there, the biggest humanitarian crisis in the world,” highlighting the severity of the situation.
Fletcher’s itinerary included a stop at the Adre crossing on the border with Chad, where he advocated for the continuation of UN aid deliveries, recently extended for an additional three months. He acknowledged the critical role of the Adre crossing as a vital conduit for delivering essential aid to those in Sudan. During his discussions with refugees, he expressed, “I know that the situation is very, very hard. I know that you need food and medicine and education and shelter and pride and dignity.”
Moreover, the humanitarian situation is dire, with nearly 26 million individuals—approximately half of Sudan’s population—facing the threat of widespread starvation, exacerbated by accusations that both factions are weaponizing hunger against civilian populations. Mr. Fletcher asserted, “These numbers are staggering, and we cannot turn our backs.”
Since April 2023, Sudan has been embroiled in a devastating conflict that pits the national army against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces. This violent struggle has led to widespread humanitarian crises, with millions of people displaced and thousands dead. The international community has increasingly recognized the urgent need for humanitarian aid and intervention, as organizations like the United Nations continue to document the severity of the situation and the implications for regional stability.
In conclusion, the call for immediate international action by UN humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher underscores the catastrophic humanitarian conditions in Sudan. With millions displaced and facing starvation, it is critical that the global community intensifies its efforts to provide support and ensure the well-being of those affected. As the conflict continues, the voices of the displaced must be amplified, reminding us all of our responsibility to respond to this crisis.
Original Source: thedefensepost.com
