France’s Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot has called on international nations to stop supporting the warring factions in Sudan during his visit to refugee camps in Chad. The ongoing conflict has resulted in immense humanitarian crises, displacing millions and putting over half of Sudan’s population at risk of acute hunger. Barrot condemned Russia’s recent actions against a UN resolution urging war cessation and pledged further aid to support those affected in Chad.
ADRE, Chad – During a visit to refugee camps in Chad, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot called on international actors to cease their support for the conflicting factions in Sudan, which is experiencing severe famine amid its ongoing civil war. The war, which erupted in April 2023 between the Sudanese Armed Forces, led by General Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), commanded by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, has reportedly resulted in the deaths of tens of thousands and displaced over 11 million individuals, with around 2.1 million fleeing the country.
The humanitarian crisis has left more than 25 million Sudanese—over half of the population—facing acute hunger. Minister Barrot condemned Russia’s recent veto of a United Nations resolution aimed at facilitating a ceasefire and ensuring civilian safety, stating that Russia has “abandoned the Sudanese” and criticized its exploitation-driven relationship with Africa.
Chad has become a refuge for approximately 1.5 million Sudanese fleeing the conflict. Minister Barrot emphasized the importance of maintaining the Adre crossing—the sole route into Chad for aid into famine-stricken Darfur—and urged all warring parties to ensure the unobstructed delivery of humanitarian assistance.
Accompanying Barrot, Chad’s Foreign Minister Abderaman Koulamallah reiterated Chad’s commitment to a neutral stance in the conflict, stating that the nation aims to facilitate peace in Sudan. He also mentioned that France has pledged an additional seven million euros ($7.4 million) to support cholera prevention and aid women and children in Chad, with previous commitments from Paris totaling $110 million.
Despite international pledges exceeding $2 billion for Sudan, there are ongoing concerns regarding the effective delivery of assistance to the affected populations.
The ongoing civil war in Sudan has severely affected the nation and its neighbors, resulting in one of the worst humanitarian crises in recent history. Since the conflict’s escalation in April 2023, millions have been displaced, causing a significant influx of refugees into neighboring Chad. This region is now struggling with the needs of these refugees while trying to maintain its neutrality in the conflict. The war has brought to light the complicity of various nations in the ongoing violence, specifically addressing the implications of foreign support for different factions, which further complicates efforts for peace and humanitarian relief. The United Nations has raised alarms about malnutrition and famine conditions affecting large portions of Sudan’s population. In this context, France’s diplomatic efforts aim to mobilize international support for a ceasefire and address the humanitarian crisis. French aid, which includes significant financial contributions, underscores the urgency of the situation and the need for cooperative solutions to aid the Sudanese people effectively.
In summary, the urgent call from France’s Foreign Minister for a halt in foreign assistance to warring factions in Sudan highlights the international community’s responsibility towards facilitating peace and humanitarian aid in the region. The humanitarian implications of the conflict cannot be overstated, as millions remain displaced and in dire need of assistance. France’s commitment of additional aid signifies a proactive approach to combating the crisis, while further pressures on foreign entities to reassess their involvement could pave the way for a more stable environment for those affected by the conflict.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
