The United Nations Security Council issued an urgent demand on Saturday for Sudan's Rapid Support Forces (RSF) to immediately cease their assault on the city of El-Obeid, the capital of North Kordofan state. Council members warned that the paramilitary group's massing of reinforcements around the city poses an imminent risk of mass atrocities.
Alarm Over Imminent Ground Offensive
Council members expressed alarm over reports indicating an imminent ground offensive on El-Obeid. They voiced deep concern about the continued violence in Sudan, particularly the escalating fighting in Kordofan state, which they warned could further worsen the already dire humanitarian situation. The council called on all parties to the conflict to immediately halt hostilities.
Drone Strikes and International Law Violations
Members also voiced concern over reports of RSF drone strikes in El-Obeid and a broader increase in drone strikes across the country by all 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.
Accountability and Humanitarian Access
The council called for all abuses and offenses 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 permit civilians safe passage, consistent with international law.
Call for Non-Interference and Peace Efforts
The council urged all states to refrain from external interference that seeks 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 rejected the establishment of any parallel governing authority in areas controlled by the RSF.
