The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have stated that the current humanitarian situation in Sudan goes beyond mere concern and have called on the U.S. administration to take a clear stance regarding the statements made by Sudanese Army Chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, documented in the city of Al-Dabba in the Northern state, where he announced the blockade of aid reaching areas under RSF control.
The RSF urged the U.S. to exert maximum pressure on the Port Sudan group to fulfill its obligations under international humanitarian law and the Jeddah Declaration for the protection of civilians, signed on May 11, 2023, and the commitment document signed on November 4, 2023.
These documents call for providing all necessary facilities, removing bureaucratic obstacles, and ensuring the delivery of humanitarian aid to those affected.
In response to a statement from Matthew Miller, the spokesperson for the U.S. Department of State, concerning the obstruction of humanitarian aid and the restriction of civil space in Sudan, the RSF issued a press release.
The RSF appreciates the U.S. Department of State’s expression of concern over the de facto authority in Port Sudan’s decision to prevent the entry of humanitarian aid from Chad and its obstruction of aid reaching RSF-controlled areas.
The RSF shares the U.S. Department of State’s concern about this decision, highlighting its clear contradiction with the principles of international humanitarian law and the international and national obligations of the Sudanese armed forces.
The RSF denies looting humanitarian aid stores in its controlled areas, stating that relief has not reached these areas in the first place.
They reaffirm their commitment to protecting relief and ensuring its delivery to the affected in all areas, following the standing orders issued to them by their leadership.
Furthermore, the RSF stated that their forces have not harmed any humanitarian field workers in their areas, as they have a genuine interest in their presence and in assisting civilians.
RSF commander Lt. Gen. Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo has appealed to the international community and humanitarian organizations to intensify their efforts to deliver humanitarian aid to deserving civilians.
