Guterres condemns Darfur attacks and calls for an end to fighting in Sudan
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres expressed his strong condemnation and deep concern over the dangerous escalation of military violence in Sudan, following confirmed reports that at least 30 civilians were killed and dozens injured in a drone strike on the town of Kutum in South Darfur on December 8. This attack is part of a series of deadly attacks targeting unarmed civilians in the region.
UN condemns targeting of civilians
In an official statement, the Secretary-General stressed the need to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure, considering these attacks a flagrant violation of international law and norms. Guterres called on all parties to the conflict to strictly adhere to their obligations under international humanitarian law and international human rights law, particularly in areas of active conflict with high population density and dire humanitarian conditions.
Background of the conflict and deteriorating conditions in Darfur
This escalation comes at a time when Sudan is experiencing a bloody conflict that erupted in mid-April 2023 between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, leading to the world's largest humanitarian crisis in terms of the number of displaced people. The Darfur region, which has suffered for decades from armed conflict and instability, is one of the areas most affected by the current war, with scenes of ethnic violence and indiscriminate bombing resurfacing, bringing back memories of the tragedies of past years that left thousands dead and displaced.
The repercussions of continued violence and the use of marches
Observers note that the increasing reliance on drones in combat operations within populated areas, as seen in the town of Kutum and in Kutum in North Darfur, which witnessed a similar attack on the same day, represents a dangerous escalation in the war. This shift not only directly threatens civilian lives but also complicates efforts to deliver humanitarian aid to affected areas in Darfur and Kordofan states, raising the specter of imminent famine and disease outbreaks amidst the collapse of the health system.
Calls for a comprehensive political solution
In closing his statement, António Guterres reiterated his call for the Sudanese parties to immediately agree to a cessation of hostilities, stressing that a military solution would only bring further destruction. The Secretary-General urged Sudanese leaders to resume serious talks to achieve a permanent ceasefire and launch a comprehensive, inclusive, and Sudanese-led political process, emphasizing the United Nations' full readiness to support any serious steps aimed at ending the fighting and charting a path towards a lasting peace that restores stability to the country and the region.
