The United Nations (UN) fact-finding mission on Sudan has urgently appealed to the warring factions in the country to adhere to an immediate ceasefire, halt attacks on civilians, and ensure the unobstructed delivery of humanitarian aid to millions in dire need.
In a statement released on Thursday, the mission highlighted the ongoing conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, which has resulted in thousands of civilian deaths since its outbreak on April 15, 2023.
The mission further revealed the dire humanitarian situation unfolding in Sudan, where over six million individuals have been internally displaced, and nearly two million refugees have sought asylum in neighboring countries.
An estimated 24 million people require humanitarian assistance, with 18 million facing severe food insecurity.
Food security experts are warning of a potential famine, especially in parts of the Darfur region. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), grain crops have halved compared to the previous year, and grain prices have doubled or tripled in war-affected areas.
Mohamed Chande Othman, head of the International Independent Fact-Finding Mission on Sudan, declared that the time has come to end the devastating war in Sudan.
He urged the conflicting parties to immediately cease all acts of violence and hold those responsible for serious human rights violations accountable.
Othman emphasized the legal obligation of the warring sides to protect civilians, noting a lack of serious commitment to this duty.
The mission is currently investigating disturbing reports of repeated attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure, including hospitals and schools, signaling a grave humanitarian crisis that underscores the urgent need for peace and stability in the region.
