The UK government has called for the immediate end of the RSF’s siege of El Fasher in Sudan.
Ambassador James Kariuki delivered a powerful statement at the UN Security Council, condemning the violence and urging all parties to respect international law and facilitate humanitarian aid access in the war-torn region.
RSF’s Assault on El Fasher: A Growing Crisis
Violence in Sudan has escalated dramatically, with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) at the heart of this devastation. Consequently, the siege of El Fasher, a major city in North Darfur, has drawn international condemnation.
As fighting spreads beyond Khartoum, civilians have borne the brunt of this conflict. Meanwhile, millions have been displaced, essential infrastructure destroyed, and food supplies are dwindling.
Furthermore, disease outbreaks are on the rise, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. Ultimately, the situation in Sudan is dire, and immediate action is necessary to alleviate civilian suffering.
Ambassador James Kariuki, speaking on behalf of the UK at the UN, left no doubt about his country’s stance.
“We strongly condemn the Rapid Support Forces’ assault on El Fasher,”
he stated, stressing the immediate need for a ceasefire and an end to the ongoing violence.
The UK’s call comes as humanitarian conditions continue to worsen, with over 10 million people displaced across Sudan.
International Law and Accountability
At the heart of the UK’s message is a firm demand for the warring parties to respect international law.
The violence in Sudan, particularly the escalation around El Fasher, is seen as a direct violation of UN Resolution 2736, passed in June 2023, which calls for the protection of civilians and the cessation of hostilities.
Kariuki highlighted the importance of holding those responsible for the violence accountable under international law, stating, “The warring parties must uphold their obligations.”
The UK’s position is clear: states must refrain from supplying arms to either side of the conflict, as doing so would only fuel the violence. With the UN Security Council recently renewing the arms embargo, the UK is urging all member states to uphold these measures.
Humanitarian Crisis in Sudan
The humanitarian situation across Sudan has reached catastrophic levels. Over 10 million people have been displaced, and the fighting has devastated basic services such as water, healthcare, and food distribution.
El Fasher, once a hub of commerce and culture in Darfur, is now on the brink of collapse due to relentless bombardments and shelling by both the RSF and Sudanese Armed Forces.
The UK’s statement underscores the need for urgent action to scale up humanitarian aid. The re-opening of the Adre border crossing was a positive step, but much more needs to be done to provide relief to those affected by the conflict.
Kariuki urged all sides to
“return to negotiations in good faith and stop this senseless violence now.”
The Widespread Impact of Violence in Sudan
The ongoing conflict in Sudan has had far-reaching consequences not only for those directly caught in the crossfire but for the wider region. Neighbouring countries, already strained by economic and political challenges, are struggling to cope with the influx of refugees.
The conflict’s destabilising effect on East Africa cannot be overstated. Sudan, historically a breadbasket for the region, now faces food shortages that could further destabilise the country and its neighbours.
The Scale of Sudan’s Humanitarian Crisis
Humanitarian Figures |
Impact |
|---|---|
| People Displaced | Over 10 million |
| Children Displaced | Approximately 4 million |
| Total Killed Since Conflict Began | Nearly 16,650 people |
| People in Need of Humanitarian Aid | 25 million |
| Food Insecurity | 19 million children affected |
The Path to Peace
The UK’s call at the UN Security Council reflects a growing international consensus: the violence in Sudan must end, and the warring parties must return to peace talks.
There is a growing recognition that without international pressure, the conflict will only continue to spread, causing more devastation and displacement. The need for a ceasefire, humanitarian access, and a political solution is more urgent than ever.
As Sudan teeters on the edge of further chaos, the UK, alongside other members of the international community, is pushing for diplomatic efforts to restore peace and rebuild the nation.
The siege of El Fasher has become a symbol of the broader conflict, one that threatens to engulf not only Sudan but the entire region if left unchecked.
Sources: THX News, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office & James Kariuki.
