In the beleaguered landscape of war-torn Sudan, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has condemned the deadly army airstrikes in North Darfur, which claimed hundreds of civilian lives and left many injured. This tragic event at Tora Village on 24 March has further underscored the urgent need for civilian protection amid the ongoing conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
On the heels of this calamity, news broke that the army has regained control of Khartoum, the capital, after predominantly being governed by the RSF since clashes ignited in April 2023. With the army’s resurgence, they have seized the presidential palace and established dominance over essential bridges crossing the River Nile, which are vital for connecting areas across the city.
The violence is relentless; reports indicate that among the casualties from Monday’s airstrikes, 13 individuals belonged to a single family. Tragically, many of the injured are succumbing due to the scarce medical resources available. Following the aerial attacks, civilians were reportedly arrested and detained arbitrarily by RSF members in Tora, highlighting the indiscriminate tactics employed by both factions. Türk has lamented these actions, urging compliance with international humanitarian law to protect innocent lives.
Addressing the catastrophic circumstances, UNICEF has raised the alarm over escalating abuses against children amidst the turmoil. Since January, North Darfur has witnessed at least 110 verified child violations, with recent casualties in El Fasher reflecting the toll of ongoing violence. Over 70 children have been killed or injured in a matter of months, a grim reminder of the urgent need for protection in war.
With approximately 825,000 children facing a dire predicament in and around El Fasher, the actual figures likely underestimate the true human cost of the conflict. The plight has been compounded by the displacement of over 60,000 people in just six weeks, adding to the half million already forced from their homes since April 2024, of whom a significant number are children. Amidst all this, malnutrition and famine loom as pressing threats, with over 457,000 children malnourished, including nearly 146,000 suffering from severe forms.
The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights has condemned deadly army airstrikes in North Darfur, which have killed hundreds of civilians. With ongoing conflict between the SAF and RSF, the humanitarian crisis continues to worsen, particularly for children. UNICEF reports a surge in child violations and malnutrition, urging immediate humanitarian aid to the region.
In conclusion, the devastating airstrikes in North Darfur have ignited grave concerns over civilian safety and human rights, drawing condemnation from international bodies. The ongoing conflicts have sown despair among thousands, particularly children, who face malnutrition and displacement. Immediate humanitarian access is crucial to alleviate suffering and provide aid in this beleaguered region, as the situation escalates with alarming speed.
Original Source: news.un.org
