US blames Darfur rebels for new fighting

WASHINGTON, Nov 24, 2004 (UPI) — The U.S. State Department Wednesday blamed rebels in Darfur for the latest escalation in violence in the troubled Sudanese region.

“The latest incidents of violence were instigated by the Sudan Liberation Movement Army, and they have resulted in the suspension of humanitarian activities in the areas of fighting,” deputy spokesman Adam Ereli said.

The fighting is a violation of the April 8 cease-fire agreement between the Sudanese government and rebels and of the humanitarian and security protocols agreed to Nov. 9.

“We have … made it clear to all the parties that the international community will hold accountable those responsible for committing violence and atrocities,” Ereli added.

On Tuesday, rebel forces took the town of Tawilla in North Darfur, prompting the suspension of humanitarian activities around El Fashir.

A special meeting of the United Nations, the African Union, the Sudanese government and major donors was scheduled Wednesday to consider consequences of the latest attack.