Further advances by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in El Fasher,
Sudan, are having a horrifying and devastating impact on
civilians. With hundreds of thousands of people trapped in the
city, many facing forced displacement and indiscriminate
violence, the humanitarian consequences are catastrophic.
Civilians must be able to leave safely and access lifesaving aid
without obstruction.
We are witnessing a deeply disturbing pattern of abuses in El
Fasher — including systematic killings, torture, and sexual
violence. Women and girls are facing particularly horrific
violations such as sexual violence and rape as a weapon of war,
and their suffering must not be ignored.
Both the RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces have publicly
committed to protecting civilians and enabling humanitarian
access in line with international humanitarian law. These
commitments must now be translated into immediate and concrete
action. Orders must be issued to forces on the ground to ensure
the safety of civilians, humanitarian personnel, and operations.
The RSF leadership will be held accountable for the actions of
their forces.
All parties must urgently cooperate with the UN and humanitarian
agencies to enable safe, rapid, and unimpeded access, in line
with UN Security Council Resolution 2736. Attacks on civilians,
aid workers, and civilian infrastructure — including hospitals —
must stop now.
UK aid is making a difference on the ground, including reaching
the most vulnerable through organisations such as the
International Committee of the Red Cross and the Sudan
Humanitarian Fund. In total we are contributing by providing over
£120 million in aid to Sudan, including allocating an additional
£5 million to the Sudan Cash Consortium, with around two-thirds
of this support for the most vulnerable in North Darfur.
Bringing an end to the war in Sudan will also support security at
home and help tackle illegal migration to the UK. The UK will
continue to work with international partners, including the Quad,
to push for an immediate ceasefire and a path toward peace. The
suffering must end.
