France Calls for Ceasefire in Sudan Amidst Humanitarian Crisis
France’s Foreign Minister calls for a ceasefire in Sudan’s civil war during a visit to Chad. The conflict has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and large-scale displacement. Minister Barrot criticized Russia’s recent veto of a UN resolution promoting a ceasefire, while pledging additional aid to support refugees in Chad. The humanitarian crisis in Sudan continues to worsen as foreign support complicates peace efforts.
France’s Foreign Minister, Jean-Noel Barrot, called for an immediate cessation of foreign support to the warring factions in Sudan during his visit to refugee camps in Chad. The conflict in Sudan, which began in April 2023, has resulted in tens of thousands of fatalities and displaced over 11 million individuals, with 2.1 million seeking refuge in other countries. Accusations of war crimes have been levied against both the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), exacerbating a humanitarian crisis affecting more than half of Sudan’s population, who face acute hunger.
During his visit, Minister Barrot condemned Russia’s veto of a UN resolution that sought to implement a ceasefire and protect civilians. He characterized Russia’s actions as abandoning the Sudanese people and highlighted the hypocrisy of its engagement with Africa. Barrot urged the Sudanese armed forces to facilitate humanitarian aid by maintaining the Adre crossing, the only access point to the famine-ravaged region of Darfur. He also called on the RSF to prevent disruptions to humanitarian convoys.
Chad, which is hosting approximately 1.5 million refugees from Sudan, remains neutral in the conflict, with its Foreign Minister, Abderaman Koulamallah, affirming their commitment to peace. In addition to the humanitarian plea, Barrot announced an increase in French aid to Chad, amounting to seven million euros, further building upon an earlier commitment of $110 million made in April. Despite pledges of more than $2 billion in aid for Sudan from various nations, concerns remain regarding the effective delivery of assistance to the affected populace.
The civil war in Sudan has been ongoing since April 2023 and involves two major factions: the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), led by rival generals. This conflict has plunged Sudan into a humanitarian crisis, leading to widespread displacement and severe famine conditions. Efforts by the international community to initiate a ceasefire have been hindered by geopolitical interests, illustrated by Russia’s recent veto of a UN resolution aimed at protecting civilians in Sudan. The involvement of neighboring Chad, which is accommodating millions of Sudanese refugees, underscores the regional impact of this conflict, demanding international attention and humanitarian aid.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan necessitates immediate international intervention to protect civilians and facilitate aid delivery. France’s recent call for a ceasefire and condemnation of foreign intervention illustrates the complexity of the crisis. With millions displaced and facing severe hunger, the situation demands urgent action from global leaders to ensure peace and stability in the region, emphasizing the necessity for humanitarian aid to reach those in need.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
