ICRC: Madani could turn into another death trap

Sudan Events-Follow-ups

The International Committee of the Red Cross urgently called on the parties to the conflict to ensure the protection of all civilians and provide safe passage for people trying to reach safety.
“We fear that the city of Wad Madani, which was considered a safe haven for people fleeing extreme violence in Khartoum, will turn into another death trap.” Said the head of the ICRC. “We saw desperate people fleeing in terror to the sounds of explosions amidst traffic jams and chaos. Every time there was a flight, relatives were separated and the vulnerable were left alone, such as the elderly and people with disabilities.” He added.
Wad Madani had become a refuge for many Khartoum residents after intense hostilities in densely populated urban areas destroyed large parts of the capital and cut off basic services for entire neighborhoods.
The ICRC temporarily transferred its staff from Wad Madani on Friday, as the organization continues its dialogue with the parties and urgently calls for life-saving means to be made available to all areas affected by the fighting amid escalating humanitarian needs.
The number of displaced people after eight months of conflict reached nearly six million Sudanese, the largest number in the country’s history. People live in miserable conditions after fleeing armed violence. They lack basic needs such as food and water, and constantly face fear and uncertainty. Many civilians in Sudan have been displaced numerous times, while others have found themselves trapped in dangerous locations without being able to escape.