NEW YORK CITY: The UN Security Council on Saturday demanded that Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces immediately halt their assault on the city of El-Obeid, warning of an imminent risk of mass atrocities as the paramilitary group masses reinforcements around the city.
Council members said they were alarmed by reports suggesting an imminent ground offensive on the city, capital of Sudan’s North Kordofan state.
The council expressed deep concern over continued violence in Sudan, including escalating fighting in Kordofan state, which it warned risks further exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation.
Members called on all parties to the conflict to immediately halt the fighting.
Council members also voiced concern over reports of RSF drone strikes in El-Obeid and a broader increase in drone strikes across the country by parties to the conflict.
They reiterated that all parties must protect civilians and comply with their obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law, and abide by commitments made under the Jeddah Declaration.
The council called for all abuses and offences to be investigated and for those responsible to be held accountable.
Members reiterated the need for all parties to allow and facilitate safe and unhindered humanitarian access, and to allow civilians safe passage, consistent with international law.
The council urged all states to refrain from external interference seeking to foment conflict and instability in Sudan, to support efforts toward durable peace, to abide by their international legal obligations, and to implement relevant Security Council resolutions.
Council members unequivocally reaffirmed their commitment to the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of Sudan, and their rejection of the establishment of any parallel governing authority in areas controlled by the RSF.
