The United States Urges UN Action to End Conflict in Sudan
The United States is calling on the United Nations Security Council to take immediate action to help bring an end to the ongoing conflict in Sudan. The conflict, which has been raging for nearly a year, involves the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The United States has accused both parties of committing war crimes, with the RSF and allied militias also being accused of crimes against humanity and ethnic cleansing.
According to the UN, nearly 25 million people in Sudan, which is half of the country’s population, are in need of aid. Additionally, around 8 million people have been forced to flee their homes, and hunger is on the rise. US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that the Security Council must act swiftly to alleviate human suffering, hold perpetrators accountable, and bring an end to the conflict in Sudan.
Since the conflict began on April 15, 2023, the Security Council has issued only three press statements expressing concern about the situation. In December, a resolution was passed that closed down a UN political mission in response to a request from Sudan’s acting foreign minister. However, little concrete action has been taken to address the escalating crisis.
A recent report by UN sanctions monitors revealed that between 10,000 and 15,000 people were killed in ethnic violence by the RSF and allied Arab militia in West Darfur last year. Despite these shocking findings, there has been a lack of attention and action from both the Security Council and the international community at large.
Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield expressed her disappointment at the lack of response to the report’s allegations. She highlighted the urgent need for action to address the atrocities being committed in Sudan and to prevent further loss of life. The Sudanese government’s decision to block aid deliveries through Chad has further exacerbated the humanitarian crisis in Darfur, where the RSF holds control.
Last year, Reuters documented the targeted violence taking place in West Darfur, with survivors recounting horrific scenes of bloodshed and brutality. The international community must not turn a blind eye to these atrocities and must take decisive action to protect the vulnerable populations in Sudan.
As the situation in Sudan continues to deteriorate, it is imperative that the Security Council steps up its efforts to address the crisis. The United States is leading calls for urgent action to end the conflict, provide essential aid to those in need, and hold perpetrators accountable for their actions. Time is of the essence, and the international community must act swiftly to prevent further suffering in Sudan.