The OHCHR reports that civilian deaths in Sudan have tripled, with 275 fatalities from January 31 to February 5. This escalation is driven by increasing violence in South Kordofan and Blue Nile states. Humanitarian workers are also endangered, facing threats and violence. Urgent calls for the protection of civilians and aid workers have been made by OHCHR.
The United Nations Human Rights Office (OHCHR) has reported a significant rise in civilian casualties in Sudan, with at least 275 deaths recorded from January 31 to February 5, reflecting a threefold increase from the previous week’s toll of 89 fatalities. The situation in South Kordofan and Blue Nile states is particularly alarming as violence intensifies, creating a potential humanitarian crisis, cautioned UN Humanitarian Coordinator Clementine Nkweta-Salami.
The hostilities have escalated dramatically, characterized by ongoing artillery shelling, airstrikes, and aerial drone assaults in populous regions, including Khartoum and various regions in Darfur and Kordofan. Kadugli, the capital of South Kordofan, has witnessed at least 80 civilian casualties, with disturbing accounts of women and children used as human shields. Furthermore, the conflict is exacerbating the threat of violence in the Blue Nile region, where significant troop mobilization is reported.
Seif Magango, an OHCHR spokesperson, remarked on the alarming increase in civilian deaths, highlighting the perilous conditions civilians endure in the absence of effective protection measures from the conflicting parties.
Aid workers in Sudan are also facing mounting dangers, with some erroneously accused of collaborating with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), leading to intimidation and violence. Since the onset of the conflict in April 2023, over 57 members of a local volunteer network have lost their lives, while essential medical supplies and food insecurity are critically lacking, particularly in South Kordofan.
The OHCHR has called upon all parties in the conflict to cease indiscriminate assaults and to enact protective measures for civilians and humanitarian workers. Mr. Magango urged the Sudanese Armed Forces, the RSF, and their allied groups to uphold international law and prioritize the safety of civilians during these tumultuous times.
The recent report from the UN highlights a severe humanitarian crisis in Sudan, with civilian deaths rising sharply amid escalating violence. Urgent protection for civilians and humanitarian workers is imperative as the conflict intensifies. The international community must hold parties accountable to their obligations under international law to mitigate this growing tragedy.
Original Source: news.un.org
