The United Kingdom, alongside a coalition of European and like-minded partners, has delivered a strong joint statement expressing profound concern regarding the escalating situation in El Obeid, Sudan. Foreign Ministers from France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, and the UK highlighted reports of a continued assault on the city, despite previous international calls for a cessation of hostilities and the protection of civilians.
The statement draws a stark parallel to the atrocities witnessed last year in El Fasher, which were assessed to bear the “hallmarks of genocide.” The international partners emphasised the critical importance of preventing a recurrence of such failures. Recent weeks have seen repeated drone strikes on El Obeid, resulting in civilian fatalities and exacerbating severe shortages of essential supplies, including fuel, food, and water. Humanitarian workers, who continue to provide vital assistance, are reportedly being deliberately targeted as the rainy season approaches.
The coalition warned of credible signs pointing to an imminent major offensive, characterising the current moment as critical and demanding immediate international action. They specifically called on the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) to halt their attack without delay. Furthermore, the statement insisted that civilians must be allowed to leave safely, and all parties – including the RSF, the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), and their respective allies – must ensure rapid, safe, and unhindered humanitarian access. All factions are urged to de-escalate, uphold international humanitarian law, and honour their commitments made under the Jeddah Declaration.
A significant point of concern raised by the ministers was the ongoing external support sustaining the conflict. They called for an immediate cessation of activities by those fuelling the violence and implored those with influence to exercise it now to prevent further bloodshed. The UK and its partners reiterated their commitment to working closely within the UN Security Council and with regional and international partners to secure a clear and unified response, stressing that the violence must end, civilians must be protected, and those responsible must be held to account.
The statement concluded with a reaffirmation of their commitment to supporting a credible path to peace through the Quintet-led process, urging all parties involved to engage in good faith. This united front underscores the international community's growing alarm over the humanitarian crisis and potential for widespread atrocities in Sudan.