The situation in El Obeid, Sudan is teetering on the brink of disaster, with warnings from the UK government that an atrocity comparable to the devastation seen in El Fasher could unfold unless urgent action is taken. As the conflict between the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) deepens, concerns are mounting about the safety of civilians caught in the crossfire.
Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Chargé d’Affaires to the UN, issued a stark warning at a recent UN Security Council meeting, highlighting the paramount need for civilian protection. He reiterated the Council's call from June 20 for residents to be able to leave El Obeid safely, stressing that all parties must comply with their international law obligations to protect non-combatants. The UK's Foreign Secretary has previously warned of a looming humanitarian catastrophe, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
The RSF's assault on El Obeid poses an urgent threat to humanitarian organisations, which require safe and unhindered access to provide critical aid. Ambassador Kariuki emphasised that attacks on humanitarian personnel are unacceptable, warning that without immediate action, those fleeing the city would be unable to access vital assistance.
Notably, the UK's stance is that the conflict cannot be resolved through military means alone. The dire situation in El Obeid underscores the need for a political resolution, which can only be achieved by ceasing hostilities and creating an environment conducive to dialogue. The UK has voiced its support for efforts towards a humanitarian truce, viewing it as the most credible path to reducing harm and fostering progress.
The statement concluded with a call for an end to external support fuelling the conflict, urging those with influence to exercise it immediately to prevent further bloodshed. As the situation in Sudan continues to deteriorate, the UK's warning is stark: the suffering endured by the Sudanese people must not continue, and regional instability and humanitarian catastrophe could unfold if the fighting persists.
The current conflict in Sudan, which erupted in April 2023, pits the SAF against the RSF. What began as a power struggle has devolved into widespread violence, creating one of the world's most severe humanitarian crises. Millions have been displaced, and access to food, water, and medical care has been severely disrupted across the country, particularly in major urban centres like El Obeid.