A dire humanitarian crisis is unfolding in Sudan as more than one million people have fled the country, and those who remain are grappling with food shortages and a lack of healthcare amid the ongoing war, warns the United Nations. The conflict, which has been ongoing for four months, has pitted the Sudanese army against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), causing significant devastation in the capital city, Khartoum, and triggering ethnically-driven attacks in Darfur.
Fleeing and Displaced Populations
The UN reports that over one million individuals have sought refuge in neighbouring countries due to the conflict’s intensification, exacerbating existing challenges faced by these nations due to conflicts or economic crises. Additionally, approximately 3.4 million people have been displaced within Sudan itself, according to the latest data provided by the International Organization for Migration (IOM).
War Origins and Civilian Suffering
The conflict initially erupted on April 15 over tensions related to the transition to civilian rule. Since then, civilians across the capital and other regions have endured daily clashes and attacks. Citizens who have not fled have encountered looting, severe power outages, communication breakdowns, and water shortages.
Humanitarian Consequences and Losses
The dire situation has led to alarming consequences. The UN has estimated the death toll to be over 4,000, with many victims remaining uncollected, unidentified, or unburied. Reports of sexual assaults have surged by 50%, further compounding the suffering. The recent electricity blackout in vast areas of Sudan, along with disrupted mobile networks, has exacerbated the crisis.
Efforts and Stalled Ceasefire Negotiations
Despite efforts led by Saudi Arabia and the United States to mediate a ceasefire, negotiations have reached an impasse. This deadlock, coupled with insecurity, looting, and bureaucratic challenges, has severely hampered humanitarian organizations’ ability to provide essential aid to those affected by the conflict.
International Concern and Implications
The conflict’s escalation raises concerns about the potential for a prolonged civil war in Sudan and its destabilizing impact on the broader region. The situation demands urgent international attention and collaborative efforts to quell violence, alleviate suffering, and restore stability to the affected areas.
SOURCE: Ref Image from PBS
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