US condemns SPLM-N attack on civilians in South Kordofan

July 5, 2015 (KHARTOUM) – The Embassy of the United States of America (USA) in Khartoum condemned a deadly attack on civilians in South Kordofan state last month by the fighters of the rebel Sudan People’s Liberation Movement – North (SPLM-N).

”We note with grave concern reports that on June 25 the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N) attacked against civilians in gold mining areas near the town of Talodi, in Southern Kordofan state,” said the embassy in a statement extended to Sudan Tribune on Sunday.

The attacks killed dozens of people and injured roughly 100 others as they gathered for morning prayers to begin their day of Ramadan fasting said the statement.

“The targeting of civilians is a violation of international humanitarian law”.

Fighting erupted between the Sudanese army and the SPLM-N fighters since June 2011.

Despite the efforts of the African Union mediation panel to end the conflict, the two parties failed to seal a cessation of hostilities agreement and to negotiate a peace agreement.

They also failed to implement an agreement aiming to allow humanitarian access to civilians in the rebel held areas brokered by the UN agencies, African Union and Arab League.

“We urge the SPLM-N, all other armed groups, and the Government of Sudan to cease hostilities, to respect their obligations under international humanitarian law, in particular with regard to the protection of civilians, and to ensure safe, timely, and unhindered access for aid organizations,” said the embassy.

The statement further urged the government and opposition groups to negotiate a peaceful settlement stressing that there is no military solution to the conflicts in Sudan.

(ST)