The UN’s top humanitarian official expressed deep concern on Friday about the growing violence in Sudan, warning that the ongoing conflict could lead to a devastating “humanitarian catastrophe” for the entire region.
In a statement released to journalists on Friday, Martin Griffiths, the UN’s humanitarian representative, stated, “The widespread violence, along with the resulting hunger, illness, and displacement, is now on the brink of engulfing the entire nation.” Griffiths particularly highlighted worries regarding the safety of civilians residing in Gezira State, a key agricultural region.
Griffiths further emphasized the critical situation, stating that hundreds of thousands of children are severely malnourished and are facing an imminent threat of death if they don’t receive proper treatment.
The situation took an unexpected turn as Sudan’s army chief, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, appeared in a video released by the army on Thursday. This marked his first public appearance since the conflict began over four months ago. In stark contrast to the struggling citizens enduring hardship, General al-Burhan seemed robust and energetic, prompting stark comparisons.
The root of the conflict lies in a power struggle between the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) for control over the capital and other major cities. The conflict began on April 15 and has defied all diplomatic efforts for resolution as both sides remain steadfast in their belief of eventual victory.
While the RSF has asserted control over Khartoum and surrounding areas, the army has utilized its air power to dislodge paramilitary forces from strategic positions. However, despite intense clashes, neither faction has managed to secure a clear advantage. The civilian toll has been severe, with numerous casualties and an alarming displacement count of over 4.5 million as reported by the United Nations.
General al-Burhan sought to present a united front in the video, filmed at the Wadi Sayidna air force base. He expressed gratitude to the soldiers and reaffirmed the army’s commitment to protecting Sudan.
At the same time, the RSF launched a multi-day attack on the Armored Corps base in southern Khartoum, escalating tensions and adding to the volatile situation.
Questions arose about General al-Burhan’s departure from Khartoum, raising concerns about logistics and security amid the ongoing conflict.
The impact of the conflict has been devastating. Hospitals are closed, essential services are sporadic, and food scarcity is rampant. The onset of the rainy season has exacerbated the crisis, leading to outbreaks of diseases like measles, watery diarrhea, malaria, and dengue fever, worsening the already dire situation.
Among the chaos, women and children have suffered the most. Disturbing reports of sexual assault against young girls have emerged, and diseases have claimed the lives of innocent children. Despite continuous efforts for peace, the conflict’s unyielding nature has plunged Sudan into four months of unending suffering. Civil servants, once the backbone of society, now struggle in low-paying jobs to survive, as hunger and poverty loom large.
As the nation grapples with these challenges, there is a desperate hope that Sudan doesn’t suffer irreparable harm before the conflict is resolved.
