France’s Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot called for an end to foreign aid for combatants in Sudan’s civil war during a visit to Chad, amidst accusations of war crimes and a humanitarian crisis affecting millions. Barrot condemned Russia’s actions regarding a UN resolution urging a ceasefire. He announced additional aid for Chad while emphasizing the necessity of humanitarian access and neutrality in the conflict.
In a recent visit to refugee camps in Chad, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot called on the international community to cease support for the opposing factions in the civil war ravaging Sudan. The conflict, which erupted in April 2023, pits the Sudanese army against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), resulting in widespread atrocities and humanitarian crises. Barrot condemned Russia’s veto of a UN resolution aimed at establishing a ceasefire, stating that such actions have led to further suffering among the Sudanese people.
The ongoing violence has uprooted over 11 million individuals, with 2.1 million seeking refuge outside Sudan. According to the United Nations, acute hunger threatens more than half of the Sudanese population. Barrot urged the Sudanese military to facilitate the Adre crossing, a crucial route for humanitarian aid into the famine-stricken areas of Darfur. He also called for the RSF to halt the theft and redirection of aid intended for civilians.
Barrot, who announced an additional €7 million in humanitarian aid for Chad, emphasized the need for neutrality in continued efforts to foster peace in Sudan. This contribution follows France’s earlier commitment of $110 million in April. Meanwhile, international pledges for Sudan aid exceed $2 billion, although there are continued concerns regarding the logistics of delivering this assistance effectively.
The civil war in Sudan has escalated dramatically since April 2023, primarily involving clashes between the Sudanese army and the RSF. Both parties are accused of committing egregious war crimes, exacerbating the existing humanitarian crisis exacerbated by famine and widespread displacement. As neighboring countries like Chad become primary recipients of fleeing refugees, the call for a ceasefire and humanitarian assistance has grown urgent amidst escalating food insecurity affecting millions of Sudanese citizens.
The French government’s appeal to cease external supports for the belligerent factions in Sudan underscores the escalating humanitarian crisis and the urgent need for stable governance and peace in the region. Moreover, the commitments from France and the international community highlight a collective effort to mitigate the effects of the ongoing strife and restore stability to Sudan and its neighbors.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
