Security council condemns violence in Sudan

Sudan Events- Follow-ups

Members of the UN Security Council have expressed concern about the spread of violence and the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Sudan. They strongly condemned the reported attacks against civilians, and the expansion of fighting in areas hosting large numbers of displaced people, refugees and asylum seekers, especially in Al-Gezira state, where more than 250,000 people have fled Wad Madani since the beginning of the Rapid Support Forces offensive, and from the Darfur region, including El Fasher.
In a statement today (Saturday), members expressed particular concern about ongoing reports of violations of international humanitarian law and continuing human rights violations and abuses, which include cases of sexual violence in conflicts.
They urged the parties to exercise restraint and protect civilians and civilian infrastructure in accordance with their obligations under international law, especially international humanitarian law.
Members commended the efforts of humanitarian actors inside Sudan and in neighboring countries – including UN humanitarian agencies, UN implementing partners, the International Committee of the Red Cross and national partners.
They called on all parties to allow and facilitate rapid, safe and unhindered humanitarian access to all parts of Sudan – in accordance with the relevant provisions of international law and in line with the United Nations Guiding Principles for Humanitarian Assistance, which include humanity, neutrality and independence.
Council members condemned the December 10 attack on an International Committee of the Red Cross convoy, and stressed the need to respect and protect humanitarian workers.
They called for increased humanitarian aid to Sudan and neighboring countries, where more than 1.5 million people have sought refuge since April.
Council members renewed their call for an immediate cessation of hostilities, facilitating humanitarian access – including by fulfilling the commitments made by the parties in Jeddah, and seeking a negotiated solution to the conflict.
They welcomed the leadership of IGAD and the African Union, stressed the decisive role of neighboring countries and the Jeddah Forum, and affirmed their support for the Personal Envoy of the Secretary-General, Ramtane Lamamra.
They called on all Member States to refrain from external interference that seeks to provoke conflict and instability, and to support efforts aimed at achieving lasting peace. They renewed their commitment to the sovereignty, unity, independence and territorial integrity of the Republic of Sudan in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations.