The conflict in Sudan, described as “a war on people” by MSF leader Christopher Lockyear, marks its third year, leading to widespread displacement and thousands of deaths. Lockyear criticized the international community’s inadequate response and condemned the violence perpetrated by both the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces. The humanitarian aid response has faltered, prompting MSF to suspend activities in affected regions like Zamzam camp.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan has escalated into a humanitarian crisis described as “a war on people” by Christopher Lockyear, the Secretary General of Doctors Without Borders (MSF). This crisis nears its third year, having uprooted millions and resulted in tens of thousands of deaths. Lockyear addressed the UN Security Council, emphasizing that violence must not continue with disregard for civilian lives and critiquing the inadequate international response hampered by the warring parties.
Lockyear highlights the brutal actions of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), stating they have indiscriminately bombed populated areas. Additionally, he condemned the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and allied militias for engaging in systematic violence, including sexual abuse, mass killings, and looting humanitarian aid. The conflict has displaced over 12 million people since its onset in April 2023, stemming from disputes about RSF’s integration into the national army.
The fractured nature of this conflict sees the SAF governing the east and north, while the RSF controls western Darfur and southern regions. Both factions have been accused of war crimes and causing immense suffering for civilians, who remain unprotected amidst a backdrop of violence. Lockyear conveyed the dire situation, stressing that despite discussions, civilians continue to suffer from bombings and deprivation of basic needs like food and medical care.
He also criticized the humanitarian response as ineffective, attributing delays to bureaucratic obstacles and security issues. The severity of the crisis led MSF to suspend operations in Zamzam camp for internally displaced persons, which is struggling to support approximately 500,000 individuals amidst famine conditions.
The conflict in Sudan represents a severe humanitarian crisis characterized by violence against civilians, widespread displacement, and insufficient international response. Key leaders, like Lockyear from MSF, call for urgent accountability and increased humanitarian aid. As the conflict persists, civilians bear the brunt of ongoing brutality, highlighting the need for immediate action to mitigate this dire situation.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
