The United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Sudan, Ms. Clementine Nkweta-Salami, has expressed grave concern about the protection of civilians following airstrikes and shelling that over the past week resulted in reports of mass civilian casualties in parts of the Darfur region and Khartoum state.
A Tuesday press statement from the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) in Sudan said built-up urban areas of Greater Khartoum, Al Fasher, Al Kuma, Kabkabiya, Kutum, and Nyala saw tens of airstrikes and artillery exchanges over the past week, leading to significant numbers of reported civilian casualties and the destruction of homes, markets, and medical facilities.
“On 13 December 2024, the facilities of Al Fasher’s Saudi Hospital were reportedly struck by drones, causing intensive damage and civilian casualties,” the statement reads in part.
Between 10 and 15 December 2024, Zamzam IDP camp has seen numerous incidents of shelling that have reportedly caused civilian casualties, burned houses and caused hundreds of people to flee due to increased security concerns, OCHA reported.
“This wave of large-scale and devastating violence against civilians underscores the need for immediate de-escalation. After 20 months of conflict, this ever-rising toll of the dead and injured is unacceptable. International humanitarian law must be respected,” the Humanitarian Coordinator said. “The principles of distinction, proportionality and precautions in attacks must be respected at all times. Armed actors operating near or within populated areas and camps for internally displaced persons and refugees are posing direct threats to residents, and blocking the delivery of lifesaving humanitarian assistance. Civilians and civilian infrastructure, including hospitals, must at all costs be spared in conflict.”
Nkweta-Salami added: “I call for an immediate cessation of hostilities and safe passage for civilians wishing to flee to destinations of their choice.”