UN Security Council Urges Immediate Halt to Military Build-Up in Sudan
UN Security Council members have called on the warring parties in Sudan to immediately halt the military build-up and take steps to de-escalate the situation in El Fasher, the provincial capital of North Darfur.
Imminent Threat and Humanitarian Crisis
The call comes amid reports of an imminent offensive by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and their allied militia against the city, posing a threat to the lives of hundreds of thousands of displaced persons currently sheltering there. At least 43 people, including women and children, have been killed in fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and RSF since 14 April.
Civilians trapped in the city, the only one in Darfur still in the hands of the SAF, fear for their lives if they attempt to flee. The situation is worsened by a severe shortage of essential supplies due to constraints on deliveries of commercial goods and humanitarian aid caused by the fighting and access challenges through RSF-controlled territory.
Ongoing Turmoil and Humanitarian Crisis
Sudan has been in turmoil since the conflict between SAF and paramilitary RSF erupted last April. More than 14,000 people have been killed, with reports of abhorrent sexual and gender-based violence. The war has displaced over six million civilians within Sudan and a further 1.8 million across its borders, amidst a massive crisis affecting 25 million people in need of humanitarian aid and protection.
Security Council’s Call to Action
In a statement, Security Council members urged SAF and RSF to end the military build-up, de-escalate the situation, and comply with international humanitarian law. They reiterated the call for an immediate cessation of hostilities to achieve a sustainable ceasefire.
The Council called on all Member States to refrain from external interference that fuels conflict and instability, and instead support efforts for lasting peace. They reminded all parties and Member States to adhere to arms embargo measures outlined in resolutions 1556 (2004) and 2676 (2023).