Human Rights Watch Presses #UN for Action on #Sudan Abuses

Human Rights Watch has called on the UN Security Council to take immediate and decisive action in response to the troubling revelations contained in the unpublished yet widely shared report on Darfur by the UN Security Council Panel of Experts.

The report by the UN provides a detailed account of the devastating attacks carried out by the Rapid Support Forces (#RSF) and their allied militias in El Geneina, the capital of West Darfur. It also identifies key individuals within the RSF and militias who were responsible for overseeing these egregious abuses.

Human Rights Watch's own reporting has shed light on the severity of the events unfolding in El Geneina and West #Darfur in recent years, particularly since the outbreak of conflict in April 2023. The organization has documented widespread ethnically targeted killings, sexual violence, and torture perpetrated against predominantly ethnic-Massalit civilians by the RSF and allied militias.

Human Rights Watch calls on the UN Security Council to move beyond condemnation and implement targeted sanctions against those responsible for the heinous crimes outlined in the report. Additionally, the organization emphasizes the imperative for other nations and governmental bodies to utilize the evidence presented to take immediate action under their own sanction regimes.

https://www.hrw.org/news/2024/02/06/un-security-council-should-act-against-abusers-sudan

#UN chief urges all nations to do everything possible to stop the 'horrible' war in #Sudan

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres issued a passionate plea to the global community, urging immediate action to halt the devastating conflict ravaging Sudan. Guterres emphasized that the ongoing violence, which erupted in April 2023, is a humanitarian catastrophe that demands urgent intervention.

With over 12,000 lives lost and 7 million displaced, Guterres stressed the futility of a military resolution to the conflict. He implored Sudan's warring factions, led by General Abdel Fattah Burhan and Gen. Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, to prioritize dialogue over continued bloodshed.

The UN, in collaboration with regional partners such as #IGAD, the #AU, and the Arab League, seeks to convene discussions at the AU summit in #Addis_Abeba on 17-18 February. The goal is clear: to broker a ceasefire and facilitate the delivery of critical humanitarian aid to millions in dire need. Meanwhile, #ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan underscored the gravity of the situation, affirming that war crimes and atrocities persist in #Darfur. Urgent support for the ICC's efforts to prosecute perpetrators is essential, emphasized Guterres.

https://www.thestar.com/news/world/un-chief-urges-all-nations-to-do-everything-possible-to-stop-the-horrible-war-in/article_25a3215a-edbb-51ab-8890-31e725d515b4.html

Al-Burhan welcomes #Darfur groups in “Battle of Dignity,” calls for future integration

General Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, head of #Sudan’s military and Sovereignty Council, has hailed the participation of Darfur armed movements in the recent conflict against the Rapid Support Forces (#RSF), advocating for their integration into the national army post-conflict.

During his visit to the training camps of the Justice and Equality Movement (#JEM) and the Sudan Liberation Movement (#SLM), Al-Burhan underscored the military's duty to defend the nation and its citizens. He depicted the conflict as a struggle to liberate civilians from RSF control and brutality.

Denying allegations of initiating attacks on civilians, Al-Burhan commended the Darfuri movements for aligning with the army and adopting its uniform. He affirmed his resolve to eradicate the RSF, emphasizing unity to cleanse Sudan of rebellion and mercenaries.

https://sudantribune.com/article282507/

Rights violations ripple across war-torn #Sudan: UN

The #UN Human Rights Office has released a comprehensive report shedding light on the devastating consequences of the armed conflict in Sudan. Since its inception last April, the conflict has claimed thousands of civilian lives, displaced millions, and witnessed widespread looting and child conscription.

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, expressed deep concern over the prolonged suffering and chaos, emphasizing the urgent need for resolution. The report highlights indiscriminate attacks by both the Sudanese Armed Forces (#SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (#RSF), particularly in densely populated areas like #Khartoum, #Kordorfan, and #Darfur.

By December 2023, over 6.7 million individuals were displaced within Sudan and neighboring countries, a number that has since surged to over eight million.

https://www.ungeneva.org/en/news-media/news/2024/02/90651/rights-violations-ripple-across-war-torn-sudan

#Sudan's Darfur civilians face ethnic killings in #RSF attacks — #UN report

Disturbing revelations have emerged regarding the ongoing conflict in Sudan. According to United Nations experts, paramilitary forces and their allied militias are engaging in widespread ethnic killings and rapes, potentially constituting war crimes and crimes against humanity.

The report, recently disclosed to the UN Security Council, exposes the brutality of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) against Africans in #Darfur. It unveils how the RSF, commanded by Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, gained control of much of western Darfur, perpetrating atrocities against civilians, especially the ethnic Masalit.

Sudan's plunge into chaos since April has escalated tensions between the military and paramilitary groups, resulting in street battles and regional conflicts. The Darfur region, reminiscent of its tragic past, is witnessing its worst violence since 2005.

The conflict has triggered a humanitarian crisis, displacing over 6.8 million people, with millions seeking refuge within Sudan and neighboring countries. Critical infrastructure, including water, sanitation, and healthcare facilities, has been devastated by heavy artillery and shelling.

https://www.trtworld.com/africa/sudans-darfur-civilians-face-ethnic-killings-in-rsf-attacks-un-report-17183538

#Sudan: Famine crisis in #Darfur claims lives of hundreds of children

The General Coordination for Displaced Persons and Refugees has revealed that 561 children have died from lack of food and malnutrition in just 11 months of the ongoing conflict in Sudan's Darfur region. This amounts to an average of 17 child deaths every day, highlighting the severity of the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the area.

These figures confirm warnings from #UNICEF last year, which estimated that 13.6 million Sudanese children were in desperate need of life-saving aid – the highest number ever recorded in the country. Earlier this year, UNICEF predicted that around 700,000 Sudanese children could face severe malnutrition in 2024, potentially leading to numerous deaths.

https://sudantribune.com/article283723/

#Sudanese military strikes #RSF in North #Darfur amid aid blockade

Tensions escalated in North Darfur on Wednesday as Sudanese military warplanes targeted a Rapid Support Forces (RSF) convoy near the city of Mellit. The strike came in response to the RSF allegedly attempting to block vehicles carrying humanitarian aid destined for El Fasher, according to a commander in the joint force formed by signatories of the Juba Peace Agreement.

The incident follows the RSF's refusal to allow aid deliveries through the Al-Dabba crossing of Northern State, accusing the joint force of planning to transport weapons to the Sudanese army in El Fasher. A high-ranking member of the joint force revealed that the RSF had amassed around 40 military vehicles in Mellit since Tuesday, causing concern among residents in the city controlled by armed movement forces.

The joint force managed to secure the passage of seven vehicles carrying relief supplies to Mellit, with plans to continue towards El Fasher after completing security measures. However, a North Darfur state official confirmed the RSF's earlier detention of three trucks carrying #UNICEF medical aid for children.

https://sudantribune.com/article283817/

#Sudanese women fight against the use of rape as weapon of war

Violence against women, including rape, has become widespread in Sudan's civil war, especially in #Darfur. The Sudanese women who helped lead the 2019 uprising against Omar al-Bashir are now fighting to stop wartime sexual violence. Known as "Kendake" (Nubian Queens), they play vital roles in the political movement despite escalating conflict.

Since clashes erupted in April 2023 between the military and paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (#RSF), the war has killed over 12,000, injured 33,000, and displaced nearly 7 million, according to the #UN. Sexual violence against women and girls has been rampant, particularly in Darfur. Sudanese women have become victims and activists, campaigning for women, children, and the displaced while assisting survivors.

Women's groups are promoting a protection plan developed in #Kampala, #Uganda. It aims to safeguard women from sexual violence, document rights violations, and allocate 25% of humanitarian aid to empowerment projects in refugee camps and conflict zones. Despite challenges, they continue dialogue with both sides, provide aid, support victims, and seek political representation in peace efforts.

Undeterred by violations, Sudanese women's organizations intensify activities to end the suffering. They uncover abuses by combatants, push for political solutions to stop the fighting, and craft a roadmap for Sudan's future that upholds women's rights and human dignity.

https://worldcrunch.com/women-worldwide/sudan-war-women

First #UN food aid in months arrives in #Sudan’s Darfur as famine looms

The United Nations has initiated food distribution in Sudan’s strife-torn #Darfur region after months of suspension, aiming to avert an imminent famine fueled by prolonged conflict and restricted access to aid. The World Food Programme (#WFP) disclosed that two aid convoys, traversing from #Chad, entered Darfur in late March, carrying vital sustenance for approximately 250,000 people for a month.

Leni Kinzli, WFP’s Sudan spokesperson, confirmed on Friday that food distribution has commenced in West and Central Darfur. This milestone follows protracted negotiations to reopen humanitarian corridors from Chad after permissions were revoked in February by Sudanese army loyalists.

The dire situation in Darfur, exacerbated by internal strife, has left around 18 million people facing acute hunger, with 222,000 children at risk of malnutrition-related fatalities in the coming months, as per UN agencies. The resurgence of brutal attacks by the Rapid Support Forces (#RSF) has revived haunting memories of the 2003 genocide, displacing millions and plunging the region into further despair.

While aid deliveries offer a glimmer of hope, concerns loom large over the inability to schedule subsequent convoys. Kinzli stressed the urgency of uninterrupted aid flow to mitigate the burgeoning hunger crisis, especially as Sudan braces for the lean season.

https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/4/5/first-un-food-aid-in-months-arrives-in-sudans-darfur-as-famine-looms

#Sudan conflict exacerbated by foreign arms supply: #UN

Rosemary Anne, the #UN Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, has issued a stern warning about the ongoing conflict in Sudan, attributing its perpetuation to foreign entities supplying weapons in violation of international sanctions. In a statement obtained by The City Review, Anne emphasized the detrimental role of external actors in flouting sanctions imposed by the UN Security Council, thereby exacerbating the conflict in Sudan. She condemned these actions as illegal and immoral, urging for their immediate cessation.

Anne underscored that while the warring factions in Sudan may have momentarily halted hostilities, outside support continues to sustain the conflict, perpetuating instability and impeding prospects for peace. Reports have implicated countries such as #Saudi_Arabia, the #UAE, and #Egypt in fueling the conflict, despite the sanctions imposed by Resolution 1591, which prohibits arms sales and freezes assets related to the #Darfur crisis.

The Sudanese conflict, which erupted in April 2023, has resulted in staggering casualties, with over 14,000 fatalities, tens of thousands wounded, and millions displaced. The UN warns of a looming famine, underscoring the urgent need for international intervention to address the humanitarian crisis and restore stability in Sudan.

https://cityreviewss.com/sudanese-conflict-exacerbated-by-foreign-arms-supply-un/

#RSF commander warns of potential El-Fasher offensive, urges surrender

Heightening tensions in #Darfur, a prominent Rapid Support Forces (RSF) commander has called on the Sudanese army and allied former rebel groups in El-Fasher, the capital of North Darfur State, to surrender before facing a potential offensive on the city.

The United Nations, United States, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and African Union have expressed grave concerns about the possible attack on El-Fasher, which shelters tens of thousands of civilians displaced by the ongoing Darfur conflict.

For weeks, the RSF has mobilized thousands of fighters, including some from Arab tribal militias, around El-Fasher's outskirts, raising fears of an imminent assault. In response, the army and allied groups have bolstered defenses in heavily populated neighborhoods housing many conflict-affected people.

https://sudantribune.com/article284970/

#US sanctions #RSF commanders amid escalating violence in Sudan's #Darfur

The United States has imposed sanctions on two commanders of #Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) as fighting intensifies in the North Darfur region. The move comes amid warnings from #UN officials and rights groups about the escalating violence and the risk it poses to hundreds of thousands of civilians in el-Fasher, the capital of North Darfur.

The sanctions target Ali Yagoub Gibril, the RSF's Central Darfur commander, and Osman Mohamed Hamid Mohamed, a major-general who heads the group's operational planning. The US Department of the Treasury stated that while the Sudanese people continue to demand an end to the conflict, these commanders have been focused on expanding to new fronts and battling for control of more territory.

The RSF has encircled el-Fasher in recent weeks, and fighting between the paramilitary group and the Sudanese Armed Forces has surged. The UN estimates that at least 15,500 people have been killed across Sudan since the war broke out in mid-April 2023, and more than 8.8 million people have been forced to flee their homes. Rights groups have accused both the RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces of war crimes, including killing civilians in both deliberate and indiscriminate attacks.

https://www.aljazeera.com/amp/news/2024/5/15/us-sanctions-two-rsf-commanders-as-fighting-escalates-in-sudans-darfur

#AU Peace and Security Council expresses grave concern over #Darfur situation

The African Union's Peace and Security Council (PSC) has appealed to warring parties in Darfur, Western #Sudan, to reinstate a previous local truce that had protected El Fasher from major fighting. The council urged lifting the current siege on the city, which has worsened civilian suffering, and resuming negotiations in #Jeddah promptly.

During a meeting on May 21, 2024, the PSC discussed the deteriorating situation in Darfur. Despite repeated calls for a ceasefire and return to negotiations, concerns were expressed over the ongoing conflict around El Fasher, North Darfur.

The PSC emphasized the dire humanitarian crisis, stressing the importance of ensuring unhindered humanitarian access to affected populations in Darfur and across Sudan. Apprehension was voiced over the imminent threat to civilians due to the escalating conflict and rising risk of atrocities. The warring parties were called upon to withdraw from civilian buildings, institutions, and government establishments.

The African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights has been mandated to urgently investigate the human rights situation in El Fasher and other areas in Darfur. The commission is expected to provide recommendations on holding perpetrators accountable.

https://sudantribune.com/article286108/

#EU sanctions target #Sudanese military fueling #Darfur crisis

The European Union (EU) is preparing to impose sanctions on six Sudanese military figures responsible for fueling the conflict in Sudan, which has led to a severe humanitarian crisis. EU foreign ministers are expected to approve these sanctions later this month, targeting three individuals from the Rapid Support Forces (#RSF) and three from the Sudanese Armed Forces (#SAF). The sanctions will include asset freezes and travel bans.

The ongoing conflict between the RSF and the Sudanese army, which began in April 2023, has displaced over 9 million people, creating the world's largest displacement crisis. The situation in El Fasher, North Darfur, is particularly dire, with heavy fighting and a population of 1.5 million, including 800,000 refugees.

UN agencies have warned of an imminent risk of famine, with 18 million people facing acute hunger, including 3.6 million children. Human Rights Watch has reported horrifying atrocities, including children being shot by the RSF in West Darfur. The EU's planned sanctions follow earlier measures against military equipment companies linked to the RSF and SAF.

https://tinyurl.com/yck6skb9

#ICC probes alleged war crimes in #Sudan's Darfur

The International Criminal Court (ICC) is launching an urgent investigation into war crimes and crimes against humanity in al-Fashir, #Darfur. This city has become a battleground between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

ICC prosecutor Karim Khan expressed deep concern about reports of violence against civilians, including ethnic attacks, widespread rape, and attacks on hospitals. He called on anyone with evidence (videos or audio) to submit it to the ICC.

Darfur has a long history of conflict, displacing millions. This recent violence adds another troubling chapter. The ICC has jurisdiction in Darfur due to a #UN referral in 2005.

https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/icc-prosecutor-warns-war-crimes-committed-darfurs-al-fashir-2024-06-11/

Investigators: Disregard for human rights, law drives crisis in #Sudan

Independent investigators have accused Sudan’s warring parties of driving the country into a humanitarian abyss by blatantly disregarding fundamental human rights and international humanitarian law.

The International Fact-Finding Mission for Sudan presented a dire report at the #UN Human Rights Council in #Geneva, condemning the Sudanese Armed Forces (#SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (#RSF) for their role in mass killings, looting, displacement, and sexual violence.

The conflict, which began in April 2023, has caused a grave humanitarian crisis, with around 18 million people facing acute hunger and 5 million on the brink of starvation. Particularly concerning is the situation in #Darfur, where heavy fighting has caused significant civilian casualties and the closure of vital medical facilities.

Investigators also highlighted rampant sexual violence, forced displacement, and the use of children in combat. The mission calls for an immediate cease-fire, urging both sides to prioritize humanitarian aid and protect civilians.

https://www.voanews.com/a/investigators-disregard-for-human-rights-law-drives-crisis-in-sudan/7662216.html

Rights group urges #UN, #AU action in El Fasher, North #Darfur

Human Rights Watch has called on the United Nations Secretary-General to implement Security Council resolution 2736 by collaborating with the African Union to establish a civilian protection mission in #El_Fasher, North Darfur. This plea follows recent unlawful attacks by #Sudan’s warring parties in El Fasher, resulting in numerous civilian casualties, mass displacements, and a looming threat of starvation for many residents.

Reports indicate that Sudan's warring factions have targeted populated areas in El Fasher, engaging in destructive activities like burning residential areas and hospitals. The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (#RSF) have been implicated in deliberate attacks and violence.

Mohamed Osman, a researcher at Human Rights Watch, emphasized the urgent need for the UN and AU to intervene and safeguard the vulnerable civilian population. The situation deteriorated further in mid-May, with the RSF allegedly causing chaos at South Hospital on 8 June, 2024.

https://sudantribune.com/article287226/

#WHO says access 'crucially, immediately needed' in #Sudan to avert 'disastrous' health situation

The World Health Organization on Tuesday urged for immediate access in Sudan, warning of an "unfolding humanitarian catastrophe" that needs to be contained.

"Access is crucially and immediately needed so that we can avert the disastrous health situation," the WHO representative to Sudan stated. He emphasized the need for a ceasefire to manage the humanitarian situation, which has led to the displacement of nearly 13 million people. Over 10 million are displaced within Sudan, while more than 2 million have sought refuge in neighboring countries.

Sahbani highlighted #Darfur as an area of particular concern. In El Fasher, he reported that 800,000 people lack access to essential resources. "The wounded cannot get the urgent care they need; children and pregnant and breastfeeding women are weak due to acute hunger," he explained.

https://www.aa.com.tr/en/africa/who-says-access-crucially-immediately-needed-in-sudan-to-avert-disastrous-health-situation/3276715

#Sudan opening Adre border crossing to provide humanitarian lifeline

Sudan has reopened the Adre border crossing with Chad, a move welcomed by #UN aid agencies as it allows humanitarian assistance to reach conflict-affected regions. This opening is crucial for delivering food, medicine, and other essential supplies to millions in need, particularly in areas like #Darfur, where food insecurity has reached critical levels.

The World Food Program reports that 25.6 million Sudanese are facing acute hunger, with some regions experiencing "catastrophic hunger" conditions. Aid agencies are preparing to transport supplies through the Adre corridor, aiming to provide consistent relief to those most affected by the ongoing conflict.

Meanwhile, heavy rains and flooding are complicating aid delivery, with many areas becoming inaccessible.

https://www.voanews.com/amp/sudan-opening-adre-border-crossing-to-provide-humanitarian-lifeline/7745793.html

Clashes between rival #RSF factions leave seven dead in North #Darfur

Clashes between rival factions of #Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Mellit, North Darfur, have led to seven fatalities, according to local sources.

The conflict began on Monday night when an RSF group from West Darfur attempted to loot the Mellit market, prompting resistance from local RSF members. The incident resulted in the destruction of two vehicles.

Markets in the area remain closed, and residents are staying indoors as tensions persist and both factions continue to mobilize.

https://sudantribune.com/article290087/