Qatar has reaffirmed its support for Sudan amidst a humanitarian crisis where 24.8 million people require assistance due to ongoing violence. This commitment was expressed during a meeting between Qatar’s Minister of State for International Cooperation and Sudan’s Acting Health Minister. The meeting focused on enhancing cooperation and emphasized the importance of preserving Sudan’s security and stability, while challenges remain in delivering much-needed aid to affected populations.
In the context of an ongoing humanitarian catastrophe in Sudan, where approximately 24.8 million individuals are in dire need of assistance due to widespread violence, Qatar has reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to the security and stability of Sudan. This commitment was highlighted during a recent meeting in Doha between Qatar’s Minister of State for International Cooperation, Lolwah Al Khater, and Sudan’s Acting Federal Minister of Health, Dr. Haitham Mohamed Ibrahim. The foreign ministry of Qatar released a statement indicating that the dialogue primarily focused on enhancing bilateral relations and mutual cooperation, with a strong emphasis on Qatar’s sustained support for the Sudanese people. Al Khater asserted the urgency of preserving Sudan’s security, stability, and the integrity of its territories, asserting that all measures must be taken to safeguard its official institutions and national unity. The current conflict in Sudan, which has persisted for over a year, ignited between the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) under the command of Mohammed Hamdan Daglo and the Sudanese army led by Abdel Fattah Al Burhan. This dire situation unfolded following a series of escalating tensions and continues despite numerous mediation efforts from international entities, including the United States and Saudi Arabia. Recent estimates from the World Health Organization suggest that the tragic conflict has resulted in over 20,000 fatalities, likely underestimated, and has led to the internal displacement of more than 10 million people, with an additional two million refugees fleeing to neighboring countries such as Libya, Egypt, and Chad. Furthermore, as reported by the United Nations, the ongoing violence has been exacerbated by outbreaks of diseases including cholera, malaria, dengue fever, measles, and rubella. Although there were commitments made during U.S.-led negotiations in Geneva last August to facilitate humanitarian access, there has been minimal progress in delivering aid to those in need. Last week, Doctors Without Borders (MSF) announced its inability to provide care for 5,000 children suffering from malnutrition in the Zamzam camp in North Darfur, attributing this setback to ongoing obstacles hindering aid delivery. MSF lamented, “Despite hopeful announcements following peace talks in Geneva in mid-August, no significant amount of humanitarian aid has reached people in Zamzam camp nor in nearby El-Fasher since 1 August.” This camp alone houses between 300,000 and 500,000 individuals, predominantly displaced multiple times during the conflict. The organization further urged that “All parties to the conflict and their allies must do everything to facilitate the delivery of aid to Zamzam camp.” The situation in Sudan remains critical, as humanitarian assistance continues to be critically hindered by ongoing violence and conflict, necessitating urgent international attention and action.
The conflict in Sudan has escalated into a grave humanitarian emergency affecting millions. The ongoing hostilities between the RSF and governmental forces have created a complex crisis characterized by a high incidence of violence, displacement, and suffering. With significant portions of the population in need of medical assistance, food security, and basic humanitarian supplies, the situation demands immediate, coordinated international intervention to alleviate the distress suffered by the Sudanese people. Qatar’s engagement demonstrates a proactive stance among Gulf states in addressing the repercussions of this conflict, particularly with regard to international humanitarian efforts and diplomatic support.
In summary, Qatar’s reaffirmation of support for Sudan amid a devastating civil conflict underscores the urgent need for international cooperation aimed at restoring stability and ensuring the delivery of humanitarian aid. The current conditions in Sudan remain perilous, with millions displaced and in critical need of assistance. The international community must strive to facilitate aid access and support peace initiatives that promise to stabilize the region and uphold the rights and safety of the Sudanese people.
Original Source: dohanews.co
