Hamdok urges international action to protect Sudanese civilians

November 8, 2024 (BRUSSELS) – Former Sudanese Prime Minister Abdallah Hamdok called on the international community on Friday to take urgent measures to protect civilians caught in the country’s ongoing conflict.

Speaking at the annual meetings of the Mo Ibrahim Foundation Council and the Africa-Europe Foundation Council in Brussels, Hamdok urged the implementation of a no-fly zone over Sudan and the deployment of international protection forces.

Hamdok, who heads the civilian political coalition “Taqadum,” also called for the establishment of safe zones and a large-scale humanitarian operation to provide aid to those affected by the fighting.

“The world must act now to prevent further suffering and loss of life in Sudan,” Hamdok said in a statement. “The situation is dire, and the international community has a responsibility to protect civilians.”

He highlighted the devastating impact of the conflict, which has resulted in over 159,000 deaths and the displacement of more than 12 million people. He warned that the country is facing a humanitarian catastrophe and that the collapse of the state could lead to further instability and violence.

Hamdok’s call for action comes amid growing concerns about the deteriorating security situation in Sudan. The conflict, which erupted in mid-April, has pitted the Sudanese army against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

The fighting has spread to several regions of the country, including the capital, Khartoum, and has resulted in widespread human rights abuses.

Hamdok warned that if the international community fails to act, Sudan could descend into further chaos and violence.

“The situation in Sudan is a ticking time bomb,” he said. “We must do everything in our power to prevent a further escalation of the conflict.”