Tragic SPLM-N Attack Claims Lives of Civilians in South Kordofan
At least 44 civilians died and 28 were wounded in an SPLM-N attack on Kadugli, South Kordofan. The shelling included artillery targeting civilians, with significant casualties, including an imam. The Sudanese army has responded effectively, but the broader conflict has resulted in extensive humanitarian crises across Sudan.
In a tragic escalation of violence in South Kordofan, at least 44 civilians lost their lives and 28 others were injured due to an attack by the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N), led by Abdelaziz al-Hilu. The assault occurred on Monday morning when SPLM-N forces shelled Kadugli, the capital of South Kordofan state, targeting civilians indiscriminately. Among the deceased was Imam Nizar Mohamed Tom, a respected preacher at the Kadugli Old Mosque.
The Sudanese government has condemned this act of aggression, labeling it as a brutal attack on innocent civilians. South Kordofan Governor Mohamed Ibrahim Abdel Karim emphasized the severity of the actions taken by the SPLM-N, while asserting that the Sudanese army has effectively responded, leading to significant losses for the rebels both in manpower and equipment. Sudanese military commander Faisal Mukhtar stated that the armed forces have regained control over Kadugli, ensuring safety in the area.
This incident highlights the ongoing conflict between the SPLM-N and the Sudanese army, which has persisted since 2011 over demands for special status for South Kordofan and Blue Nile regions. The situation is compounded by the broader civil war, which has resulted in more than 20,000 deaths and displaced nearly 14 million people across Sudan, according to estimates by the UN. Some research suggests the death toll could be as high as 130,000, indicating a horrendous humanitarian crisis.
International humanitarian organizations are sounding alarms regarding the catastrophic consequences of the ongoing fighting, which has now spread to 13 of Sudan’s 18 states. This widespread violence not only threatens civilian safety but also exacerbates hunger and displacement, pushing millions toward potential starvation and death due to acute food shortages. The urgent need for humanitarian intervention is clearer than ever as the country faces multifaceted crises on multiple fronts.
The Sudanese conflict has its roots in a struggle for autonomy and rights between various rebel factions and the central government. The SPLM-N has been engaged in violent confrontations with the army since 2011, demanding special considerations for regions like South Kordofan and Blue Nile. The situation has deteriorated significantly since April 2023, marked by a brutal conflict against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in the Khartoum area. Nearly 14 million individuals have been displaced due to the war’s spread. This attack in Kadugli reflects the ongoing clashes, with numerous civilians caught in the crossfire. Humanitarian agencies are increasingly concerned about the dire conditions faced by civilians amid a war that has resulted in over 20,000 fatalities. The universality of food insecurity and impending starvation has become a principal concern, with escalating violence threatening aid efforts. To address this complex issue, understanding the historical context and current implications of the conflict is essential. It is a multifaceted crisis requiring immediate international attention and intervention to prevent further loss of life and suffering.
The recent attack on Kadugli by the SPLM-N has tragically highlighted the urgent humanitarian crisis unfolding in Sudan, where thousands have been affected by the ongoing conflict. With at least 44 civilians dead and many more injured, the situation demands immediate attention. The role of international humanitarian organizations is critical as they strive to address the widespread displacement and famine that threaten millions. Without swift action to alleviate the suffering, the conflict’s toll may continue to escalate further, resulting in even greater humanitarian devastation.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
