Africa

Guterres affirms that the escalation “in death and destruction” of the conflict in Sudan is “unprecedented”

Warning that without international support it can become “a source of anarchy” that radiates insecurity throughout the region

June 19 (EUROPA PRESS) –

The Secretary General of the United Nations, António Guterres, affirmed this Monday that the escalation “in death and destruction” of the Sudanese conflict between the Army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) “is unprecedented”.

“Without strong international support, Sudan could quickly become a focus of lawlessness, radiating insecurity throughout the region,” Guterres told a high-level donor meeting on Sudan and the region in Geneva, Switzerland.

Guterres recalled that two million people have been forced to leave their homes and half a million have crossed the border to take refuge in neighboring countries. “Hundreds of civilians have died and many thousands more have been injured. These figures are increasing day by day,” he warned, adding that the situation in Darfur and Khartoum is “catastrophic.”

The UN Secretary General has drawn attention to the lack of running water in homes and electricity supply and has denounced that more than two thirds of hospitals are inactive in a conflict that affects “more than half of the population “.

“I am especially concerned about reports of sexual and gender-based violence, as well as the ethnic dimension of violence in El Geneina. Targeted attacks against civilians based on their ethnic identity could constitute crimes against humanity,” he said.

Guterres recalled that, despite the “deadly violence” against humanitarian workers, which has affected their operations –after the looting of goods and supplies or attacks on humanitarian facilities– agencies and organizations have managed to provide aid to 1.8 million people.

“Truck convoys have distributed food, water, health and educational supplies to the front lines of eight states, including Khartoum. We are making great efforts to expand our operations,” he said.

Finally, Guterres has urged the parties to comply with their obligations “under Humanitarian Law”, while calling for an end to attacks against humanitarian workers, civilian infrastructure and basic supplies.

“I am calling on all of you today to provide funding to provide life-saving humanitarian aid and support to people living in the most difficult and dangerous conditions,” he explained, adding that only 17 percent of the funds have been received. funds needed for operations in Sudan.

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