Escalating Violence in Southern Sudan Leads to Humanitarian Crisis

The United Nations reports at least 80 fatalities in southern Sudan due to renewed violence in South Kordofan and Blue Nile. The clashes involve the national army and the SPLM-N faction led by Abdel Aziz al-Hilu. Humanitarian conditions are dire, with warnings of famine and significant food insecurity affecting millions. The UN emphasizes the need for urgent humanitarian intervention amid escalating conflict.

The United Nations has alerted the global community to the escalating violence in southern Sudan, specifically in the states of South Kordofan and Blue Nile, where at least 80 individuals have reportedly lost their lives. Renewed clashes erupted last week between the national army and a faction of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N) led by Abdel Aziz al-Hilu. The UN’s humanitarian coordinator in Sudan, Ms. Clementine Nkweta-Salami, emphasized the seriousness of the situation in Kadugli, the capital of South Kordofan, where the majority of casualties occurred.

In a statement, Ms. Nkweta-Salami expressed her condemnation of the apparent use of civilians, particularly women and children, as human shields, as well as the disruption of humanitarian aid efforts. The ongoing conflict between Sudan’s army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces has led to an extensive humanitarian crisis since the conflict intensified in April 2023. The SPLM-N faction led by Hilu has engaged in clashes with both groups throughout this period.

As the situation deteriorates, both the army and the SPLM-N have accused each other of targeting civilians and launching aggressive attacks to seize territory. The UN cautions that the increase in violence threatens to exacerbate an already severe humanitarian crisis in the region. Reports indicate that millions are currently deprived of essential aid, while food insecurity has risen sharply, particularly in areas of South Kordofan where families are forced to cope with limited supplies.

Currently, approximately half a million individuals are at risk of famine in South Kordofan and Blue Nile, as reported by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification. An assessment backed by the UN has indicated the presence of famine conditions in certain regions, including parts of the Nuba Mountains, where the SPLM-N has established a stronghold. The ongoing conflict since April 2023 has resulted in the loss of tens of thousands of lives, resulted in the displacement of 12 million people, and left nearly 26 million suffering from acute food insecurity.

Southern Sudan has been embroiled in conflict since April 2023, fueled by power struggles between the national army and paramilitary forces. The states of South Kordofan and Blue Nile have been particularly affected by fighting between factions of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N). The United Nations has identified a significant humanitarian crisis resulting from the violence, leading to widespread food insecurity and displacement of populations within the affected regions.

In summary, the recent outbreak of violence in southern Sudan has resulted in significant loss of life and worsening humanitarian conditions. The UN’s warnings about the use of civilians as shields and the hindered humanitarian aid highlight the urgent need for intervention. With an alarming number of people at risk of famine and increased food insecurity, it is critical for international attention and action to mitigate the devastating impacts of this ongoing conflict.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com