The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan have accused the Sudanese Army of deliberately obstructing the delivery of humanitarian aid to areas under their control.
In a statement released on the platform “X,” the RSF claimed that, despite agreements signed by both sides to protect and facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid, the intelligence of Burhan’s forces continued to deliberately create obstacles, preventing aid from reaching its intended recipients.
Notably, not a single aid truck had entered the RSF-controlled areas.
The statement further asserted that the army’s blocking of humanitarian aid constitutes a breach of commitments made earlier in the month to allow quick passage of aid.
The RSF accused the army of using humanitarian aid politically as a means of collective punishment, depriving civilians in RSF-controlled areas of their basic rights, amounting to a war crime.
The RSF also highlighted harassment and obstacles placed in front of foreign organizations working in their areas, including deliberate delays in issuing visas for staff and blocking the delivery of medical equipment to hospitals supported by organizations such as Doctors Without Borders and the Italian Emergency Organization.
The RSF vowed not to remain silent about these practices and promised a decisive stance in response.
Sudan has faced ongoing political and social instability since the ousting of President Omar al-Bashir in 2019.
The RSF, originally a paramilitary force, has become a significant political and military player in the transitional period.
Its conflict with the Sudanese Army reflects deeper power struggles within the country’s fragile political landscape.
These developments have significant implications for the delivery of humanitarian aid in Sudan, where millions are in need of assistance due to prolonged conflict, economic crisis, and natural disasters.
The international community and humanitarian organizations have repeatedly expressed concern over the access to aid in conflict-affected areas of Sudan.
This recent accusation by the RSF highlights the complexities and challenges of delivering humanitarian aid in such a volatile environment.
