Western powers alarm over escalating violence, sexual crimes in South Kordofan
May 7, 2026 (LONDON) — A group of international powers on Thursday expressed deep concern over the escalating violence in the Kordofan region, citing reports of civilian casualties and widespread conflict-related sexual violence.
The Coalition for Atrocity Prevention and Justice, comprising Canada, France, Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands, Norway, and the United Kingdom, issued a joint statement highlighting the deteriorating situation in and around the town of Dilling in South Kordofan.
“We are alarmed by reports of strikes in which civilians have been killed or injured, and basic services including markets, medical facilities, and primary schools affected,” the statement read.
The coalition specifically underscored “multiple credible reports” of sexual violence against women and girls. It reminded the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), and their respective allies of their “absolute responsibility” under international law to prevent such atrocities and held them accountable for violations.
According to the joint statement, the current violence in the Kordofans follows “patterns repeatedly observed across other conflict-affected areas of Sudan,” which the group insisted must cease immediately.
The member states called on all warring parties to respect International Humanitarian Law, specifically the principles of distinction and proportionality, to ensure the protection of civilians and civilian objects.
The coalition further stressed the necessity of enabling the safe and unimpeded movement of civilians fleeing the violence, as well as the rapid passage of humanitarian relief. It also demanded that any detentions related to the conflict comply with international law, including by providing access to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).
The statement concluded with an urgent appeal for an immediate end to the violence and for “meaningful steps” by all parties to prevent further atrocities across the country.