UN chief demands civilian protection in Sudan, condemns both sides
October 28, 2024 (UNITED NATIONS) – UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday condemned both the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) for attacks on civilians in Sudan, demanding urgent action to protect innocent lives and ensure accountability for atrocities.
“The perpetrators of serious violations of international humanitarian law must be held accountable,” Guterres told the UN Security Council, citing “horrifying” reports of RSF attacks on civilians in El Fasher and indiscriminate SAF airstrikes in populated areas.
He further mentioned the recent “shocking reports of mass killings and sexual violence” in Al Jazirah State in the east of the country.
Guterres called for an immediate end to the flow of weapons into Sudan, which he said was “fuelling the conflict.” He acknowledged calls for a protective force but said conditions for deploying UN troops were not yet in place.
Over 11 million people fled their home areas since April last year, including nearly 3 million who have crossed into neighbouring countries. Also, almost 600,000 people were affected by heavy rains and floods this summer.
Responding to Guterres, Sudan’s UN Ambassador Al-Harith Idriss blamed the RSF and its political allies and regional supporters for the violence, accusing them of violating international law and obstructing humanitarian aid. He highlighted accounts of civilians seeking shelter with the SAF and even fighting alongside them in self-defence.
The ambassador reaffirmed Sudan’s commitment to civilian protection and outlined a strategy focused on political engagement, accountability, supporting peace processes, respecting international humanitarian law, and facilitating humanitarian access.
Guterres urged the Security Council to support new approaches to reducing violence and protecting civilians in Sudan, adapting to the conflict’s challenging circumstances. He stressed the need for safe and unhindered access to humanitarian aid and called on warring parties to uphold commitments to protect civilians and engage in negotiations.
Idress urged a shift away from the prevailing narrative of a conflict between two Sudanese factions. Instead, he emphasized the need to recognize the ongoing war as a case of external aggression fueled by regional actors.
He stated, “Sudan is facing aggression supported by regional and international players. Framing the situation solely within the context of a conflict between two internal parties is a misinterpretation that will obstruct any path to resolution.”