The UN Coordinator in Sudan, Ms. Clementine Nkweta-Salami, has condemned the escalating violence in Aj Jazirah State, which has resulted in significant civilian casualties and displacement. She highlighted the similarity of these events to previous atrocities in Darfur, noting acts of sexual violence, looting, and attacks on civilians by the Rapid Support Forces. Humanitarian organizations are mobilizing assistance as the situation deteriorates, emphasizing the urgent need for protection of civilians under international law.
The United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Sudan, Ms. Clementine Nkweta-Salami, has expressed profound alarm regarding the rising armed violence in Aj Jazirah State, which has reportedly resulted in numerous civilian fatalities. In a press release issued on October 26, she stated, “I am shocked and deeply appalled that human rights violations of the kind witnessed in Darfur last year – such as rape, targeted attacks, sexual violence, and mass killings – are being repeated in Aj Jazirah State. These are atrocious crimes.” Aj Jazirah State, with its capital in Wad Madani, is situated between the Blue Nile and White Nile in east-central Sudan. Preliminary reports, as relayed by Ms. Nkweta-Salami, indicated that from October 20 to 25, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) carried out significant assaults throughout eastern Aj Jazirah. According to her, RSF personnel reportedly fired indiscriminately at civilians, committed acts of sexual violence against women and girls, looted markets and residential properties, and set fire to agricultural land. “Residents from several villages, including Safita Ghanoubab, Al-Hilaliya, and Al-Aziba, were reportedly subjected to physical assaults, humiliation, and threats resulting in scores of civilians fleeing their homes for safety,” she noted. The ramifications of these assaults have disproportionately affected women, children, and other vulnerable groups, leaving countless individuals to grapple with instability and the loss of life. While precise figures regarding civilian casualties are still being determined, it is evident that thousands of families have been displaced within Aj Jazirah and to adjacent regions, specifically Gedaref and Kassala states. Humanitarian organizations are actively working to gather more data on the circumstances and mobilize assistance for those impacted by this escalation in violence. Ms. Nkweta-Salami reminded all belligerents that according to International Humanitarian Law, assaults on civilians, civilian properties, and public infrastructure are strictly prohibited. “It is unacceptable and must stop immediately. Civilians must be protected wherever they are,” she asserted.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan has seen various regions grappling with violence and human rights violations. The recent escalation in Aj Jazirah State reflects a disturbing trend reminiscent of events in Darfur, with armed groups perpetrating acts that violate international humanitarian standards. The situation has raised significant concerns among humanitarian organizations, underscoring the plight of civilians who are disproportionately affected by such conflicts. The UN’s involvement highlights the urgent need for protection and assistance for those caught in the crossfire of violence. Aj Jazirah State’s strategic location and its history of conflict make it a focal point for humanitarian responses in Sudan. The humanitarian issues arising from armed aggression signal broader systemic problems that affect stability across the region.
In conclusion, the alarming reports of escalating violence in Aj Jazirah State warrant urgent attention from national and international communities. As civilians endure severe consequences amidst ongoing hostilities, the need for protection and immediate humanitarian assistance is paramount. Ms. Nkweta-Salami’s pronouncement serves as a critical reminder of the obligations under international humanitarian law to safeguard civilian populations and prevent further atrocities. The international community must rally efforts to support affected individuals and address the root causes of the violence to restore peace and security in the region.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
