Sudan’s civilian death toll has surged to at least 275 from January 31 to February 5, tripling the previous week’s toll of 89. The conflict, particularly severe in South Kordofan and Blue Nile, is marked by intense attacks on populated areas and a burgeoning humanitarian crisis. Humanitarian workers face threats, with significant casualties reported among local volunteers since the conflict’s escalation in April 2023.
The civilian death toll in Sudan has alarmingly increased, reaching at least 275 individuals killed between January 31 and February 5, as reported by the UN human rights office, OHCHR. This figure indicates a threefold rise from the prior week, during which at least 89 civilians perished amid the ongoing violence. The situation is exacerbated by escalating violence in South Kordofan and Blue Nile states, raising concerns of a potential humanitarian disaster, as stated by UN Humanitarian Coordinator Clementine Nkweta-Salami.
Recent days have seen intensified conflict characterized by artillery shelling, airstrikes, and drone attacks affecting heavily populated areas, including Khartoum, North and South Darfur, as well as North and South Kordofan. The capital of South Kordofan, Kadugli, has reported at least 80 civilian casualties, with disturbing accounts of women and children being used as human shields. Additionally, the threat of violence is growing in Blue Nile, amidst reports of mass mobilization for conflict.
The rising death toll reflects the dire circumstances civilians are enduring amidst a troubling failure by both conflict parties and their allies to ensure civilian protection. OHCHR spokesperson Seif Magango stated that the sharp rise in civilian casualties highlights the urgent need for accountability and protective measures during such hostilities.
In light of these increasing fatalities, humanitarian workers are also facing significant danger. Reports indicate that local aid volunteers are being unjustly accused of collaborating with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), leading to intimidation and violence against them. Since the beginning of the conflict in April 2023, 57 members of a local volunteer network have been killed, highlighting the perilous conditions in which they operate.
There are also critical shortages of medical supplies and rising food insecurity, particularly in South Kordofan, where malnutrition rates are alarmingly increasing. The OHCHR has called upon all parties involved in the conflict to cease indiscriminate attacks and safeguard civilians, including humanitarian workers and human rights defenders. Mr. Magango emphasized the necessity for the Sudanese Armed Forces and RSF to adhere to international law and actively protect individuals from harm.
The ongoing crisis in Sudan, characterized by escalating violence since April 2023, has caused widespread civilian suffering and a humanitarian catastrophe. The conflict has intensified, particularly in regions such as South Kordofan and Blue Nile, resulting in significant loss of life and threats to humanitarian efforts. Both local and international organizations have reported alarming increases in casualties, alongside challenges faced by humanitarian workers providing essential aid to affected populations, including food and medical supplies.
The situation in Sudan presents a severe humanitarian crisis with escalating violence leading to a rising civilian death toll. The international community must urgently respond to the calls for protection and support for the vulnerable populations affected by the conflict, ensuring that both civilians and humanitarian workers receive the necessary safeguards. The adherence to international law by all parties involved is critical for preventing further loss of life.
Original Source: news.un.org
