Is the UN Alarmed by Increasing Violence in Sudan?
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Synopsis
The UN has raised alarms over the escalating violence in Sudan, particularly in North Kordofan State, where attacks have led to significant casualties. With humanitarian operations severely affected, there is an urgent call for support to assist the millions in need as the rainy season exacerbates the situation. What will happen next?
Key Takeaways
- UN expresses grave concern over rising violence in Sudan.
- Major casualties reported in North Kordofan State.
- Humanitarian operations severely impacted by ongoing conflict.
- Rainy season exacerbates living conditions for displaced individuals.
- Urgent support needed for millions affected by the crisis.
United Nations, July 16 (NationPress) - UN humanitarian officials have expressed serious concern regarding the rising violence in Sudan, particularly in North Kordofan State.
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported that from Thursday to Sunday, assaults on villages near Bara in North Kordofan led to at least 300 fatalities, including children and pregnant women. Numerous individuals sustained injuries, while homes were looted and set ablaze, resulting in mass displacement, according to Xinhua news agency.
OCHA highlighted that disrupted communication channels are complicating the process of verifying casualty figures.
Additionally, the office expressed concern over renewed shelling in El-Obeid, the capital of the state, further escalating fears and insecurity among the population.
In West Kordofan State, reports indicated that attacks on the villages of Al-Fulah and Abu Zabad resulted in over 20 deaths. One notable incident involved an airstrike on a school that was sheltering displaced families, significantly impacting humanitarian operations.
OCHA remarked, "These occurrences serve as yet another tragic reminder of the unrelenting impact of the conflict on civilians throughout Sudan." The office reiterated that civilians and civilian infrastructure—including schools, homes, shelters, and humanitarian facilities—must remain protected. They urged all conflicting parties to fully adhere to international humanitarian law.
Humanitarian officials stated that many individuals fleeing from North Kordofan and the siege in North Darfur State are seeking refuge in other regions of the country, such as Northern State.
According to OCHA, its humanitarian partners in Northern State reported over 3,000 displaced individuals have arrived in the Ad-Dabbah locality since June. While some have received food assistance, the ongoing influx of newly displaced families is placing additional strain on already limited resources.
With the rainy season underway, humanitarian officials warn of increasing difficulties.
In eastern Sudan, severe rain and strong winds on Sunday caused damage to shelters and food supplies for approximately 2,700 displaced individuals at two sites in Gedaref. A rapid assessment conducted by OCHA and its partners on Monday revealed that most affected families wish to return to their original areas but require assistance to do so.
According to the International Organization for Migration, over 1.3 million people have returned to their home regions across Sudan since November 2024. The majority have returned to the states of Aj Jazirah, Sennar, and Khartoum, yet they are facing deteriorating living conditions and a lack of basic services.
OCHA continues to call for urgent and increased support to reach millions of vulnerable individuals across Sudan, noting that this year's humanitarian response plan is only 23 percent funded.
Point of View
It is crucial to acknowledge the plight of civilians in Sudan amidst the ongoing violence. The UN's emphasis on protecting civilians and infrastructure reflects a commitment to humanitarian principles. Supporting those affected is not just a necessity but a moral obligation, and our nation must lead the way in advocating for urgent assistance.
NationPress
16/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current situation in Sudan?
The situation in Sudan is dire, with escalating violence particularly in North Kordofan State, resulting in hundreds of casualties and widespread displacement.
How is the UN responding to the violence?
The UN has expressed grave concern and is calling for urgent humanitarian support, emphasizing the need to protect civilians and infrastructure.
What are the humanitarian needs in Sudan?
There is an urgent need for basic services, food, and shelter for over 3,000 displaced individuals, as resources are already stretched thin.
What impact has the rainy season had?
The rainy season has worsened conditions for displaced individuals, damaging shelters and food supplies, which adds to the challenges faced by humanitarian efforts.
How many people have returned to their homes in Sudan?
Since November 2024, over 1.3 million people have returned to their home areas in Sudan, primarily to Aj Jazirah, Sennar, and Khartoum, despite facing worsening living conditions.
