The UN is deeply concerned about escalating violence in Sudan’s Al-Jazirah State, linked to retaliatory attacks by the Rapid Support Forces after a military defection. Recent incidents have resulted in numerous deaths and reports of sexual violence, displacing thousands of families. With a looming food crisis, calls for adherence to international law are critical, as the humanitarian situation worsens.
In a recent briefing held in Geneva, Seif Magango, spokesperson for the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), conveyed alarming news regarding the situation in Sudan’s Al-Jazirah State. Violence in this region has escalated notably following the defection of a commander from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) to the Sudanese Armed Forces on October 20, with retaliatory attacks on civilians being reported. During this period, on October 25, a tragic assault left at least 124 casualties in the village of Al-Seriha, indicative of the rising tides of violence sweeping through the area. Earlier attacks in the towns of Tamboul and Rufaa reportedly resulted in hundreds of deaths as well, signaling the dire humanitarian crisis worsening day by day. In addition to the tragic loss of life, reports have surfaced detailing at least 25 instances of sexual violence in various villages, with heartbreaking accounts including the assault on medical personnel and the tragic death of an 11-year-old girl. These shocking occurrences illustrate the severe ramifications of conflict on the most vulnerable members of society. The resulting turmoil has displaced thousands of families, forcing them to flee to neighboring states such as Gedaref and Kassala, compounding the existing displacement crisis. With over 25 million Sudanese already facing acute food insecurity, the destruction of crops in this region—routinely viewed as the country’s breadbasket—only serves to worsen the catastrophic situation. In light of these escalating crises, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk has implored all parties involved to adhere strictly to international human rights norms to protect civilians. He reiterates that immediate measures are necessary from both sides to defuse tensions, urging for an investigation into the alleged violations and calling for accountability through fair trials.
The conflict in Sudan, particularly within the Al-Jazirah region, has seen an alarming increase in violence and human rights violations. This has been notably exacerbated by recent events, such as the defection of military personnel and subsequent retaliatory actions by armed groups. The ongoing turmoil has not only claimed many lives but also displaced families, contributing to a humanitarian crisis characterized by food insecurity and rampant violence against civilians.
The situation in Sudan’s Al-Jazirah State is escalating rapidly, marked by violence against civilians, widespread displacement, and food insecurity. As the conflict deepens, humanitarian concerns multiply, demanding urgent action from all involved parties to uphold human rights and protect vulnerable populations. Continued advocacy for peace and accountability remains critical as the world watches this tragic unfolding of events.
Original Source: media.un.org
