UN calls for ‘immediate’ ceasefire in Sudan, as death toll mounts

NEW YORK / WAM

Clashes intensified across Sudan on Monday, as top UN officials urged rival military factions to protect civilians and respect the country’s international obligations.
“I strongly condemn the outbreak of fighting that is taking place in Sudan and appeal to the leaders of the Rapid Support Forces (RAF) and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) to immediately cease hostilities, restore calm, and begin a dialogue to resolve the crisis,” UN Secretary-General António Guterres said on Monday.
Following the deaths of three employees of the UN World Food Programme (WFP) in the restive Darfur region amid widespread fighting, he called for those responsible to be brought to justice without delay.

‘Horrendous’ loss of life
“The situation has already led to horrendous loss of life, including many civilians,” the UN chief said, ahead of delivering opening remarks at a UN Forum on Financing for Development.
Urging all those with influence over the deteriorating situation to press for peace, and support efforts to end the violence, restore order, and return to the path of transition, he warned that “any further escalation could be devastating for the country and region”.

Clashes in capital spread
The crisis began with armed clashes between forces from the SAF, loyal to the head of the military government, and those of his deputy, who leads the paramilitary RAF.
Skirmishes led to widespread fighting between RSF and SAF forces across the capital Khartoum and surrounding areas.
Since then, more than 83 people have been killed and more than 1,126 people injured across Khartoum, South Kordofan, North Darfur, Northern State and other regions, with the heaviest concentration of fighting taking place in Khartoum, the World Health Organisation (WHO) said in a statement.
“Movement in the city is restricted due to the insecurity, creating challenges for doctors, nurses, patients and ambulances to reach health facilities, and putting at risk the lives of those who need urgent medical care,” WHO said, calling for protecting health workers and patients and urging parties to respect the neutrality of healthcare.