Alarming Attacks on Famine Camps in Sudan Raise Concerns for UN Humanitarians
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Synopsis
The UN warns of increasing violence at the Zamzam camp in Sudan, where famine is prevalent. Aid organizations report civilian casualties and obstructed evacuations. The UN calls for adherence to international humanitarian law amidst escalating conflict and destruction of vital infrastructure.
Key Takeaways
- Escalation of violence in Zamzam camp raises alarms.
- Heavy weaponry use reported in North Darfur.
- Civilian casualties include humanitarian workers.
- Urgent need for food assistance for 300,000 displaced individuals.
- UN demands compliance with international humanitarian regulations.
United Nations, Feb 15 (NationPress) The rise in violent clashes within and around a camp for displaced individuals in western Sudan, where famine conditions have been reported, is causing significant concern among aid workers, according to UN humanitarians.
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) indicated on Friday that there has been a surge in direct assaults on the Zamzam displacement camp located near El Fasher in North Darfur State over the last week.
According to OCHA, satellite imagery reveals the deployment of heavy artillery and the devastation of the central market area in El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
"International non-governmental organizations operating in Zamzam have documented significant civilian fatalities, with humanitarian workers among those reportedly deceased," the office stated. "Civilians, including those injured, are allegedly being obstructed from evacuating the area."
OCHA estimates that Zamzam currently shelters hundreds of thousands of displaced individuals. The camp is also noted for experiencing famine conditions, amplifying concerns regarding the reported destruction of its market area.
Furthermore, OCHA mentioned that the World Food Programme (WFP) is collaborating with its partners to provide vital food and nutritional assistance to 300,000 displaced individuals in and around Zamzam. This latest wave of violence jeopardizes both families and essential life-saving operations.
"The UN urges all conflicting parties to comply with obligations set forth in international humanitarian law," OCHA asserted. "Attacking civilians and civilian infrastructure is strictly forbidden. All parties must implement measures to safeguard civilians from harm and allow those wishing to leave the area to do so safely and with dignity."
Stephane Dujarric, the chief spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, revealed that the under-secretary-general for humanitarian affairs and emergency relief coordinator, Tom Fletcher, along with UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi, will advocate for assistance for war victims in Sudan.
On Monday, Fletcher will unveil the 2025 Sudan Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan along with the Grandi Regional Refugee Response Plan for Sudan.
Dujarric stated that Fletcher and Grandi will appeal for funding for these plans, as well as enhanced protection and support for civilians affected by nearly two years of conflict, aiming to aid approximately 26 million individuals in need both within Sudan and across its borders.
