The United Nations has issued a scathing rebuke of Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) for allegedly obstructing critical aid deliveries to the famine-stricken Darfur region. With millions at risk of starvation, the escalating crisis highlights a glaring humanitarian failure as global attention wavers.
Humanitarian Crisis Escalates
Darfur, a region larger than France, is now under near-total RSF control following 13 months of brutal conflict with Sudan's regular army. The RSF has blockaded North Darfur's El-Fasher since May 2023, with UN data showing 7 million people in the region facing 'crisis levels' of hunger. Five areas have already been declared famine zones by the IPC, with warnings of rapid spread.
A Call for Global Action
'The world is watching, and it is unacceptable that aid can't reach those in desperate need,' said Clementine Nkweta-Salami, UN Humanitarian Coordinator for Sudan. The agency reports bureaucratic roadblocks, demands for forced collaboration with RSF-approved vendors, and looting of supplies have crippled relief efforts.
With 25 million Sudanese—half the population—facing dire food insecurity and 12 million displaced, this conflict has created the world's largest hunger crisis. Relief workers describe systematic obstruction by both warring factions, including threats to staff and stolen aid shipments.
As international pressure mounts, the UN demands simplified access protocols and an immediate ceasefire to prevent catastrophic loss of life.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
