Sudan's Civil War Ignored by the World: Tens of Thousands at Risk

Strategic Insights -

The crisis in Sudan has taken a devastating turn as foreign ministers from Germany, Britain, and Jordan express concern over the lack of global attention given to the situation. The fall of el-Fasher in Darfur has left tens of thousands of people at risk, with over 65,000 having fled the city. The situation is dire, with aid organizations warning of mass executions, starvation, and the use of rape as a weapon of war. The foreign ministers have urged the international community to take action to address the humanitarian crisis, which they say has been neglected for too long.

Key Takeaways:

  • Over 65,000 people have fled el-Fasher in Darfur after the city was captured by the Rapid Support Forces paramilitary (RSF) last Sunday, according to the United Nations.
  • Tens of thousands more remain in the city, with MSF warning that those who remain are in "grave danger" due to RSF fighters preventing them from escaping.
  • MSF estimates that only 5,000 people have managed to reach safety in Tawila, around 70 kilometers west of el-Fasher.
  • German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul described the situation in Sudan as "absolutely apocalyptic".
  • British Foreign Minister Yvette Cooper emphasized that aid alone cannot solve the crisis, and that the guns must fall silent before any progress can be made.
  • The United Arab Emirates has been accused of fueling the crisis by providing weapons and other support to the RSF.

Statistics:

  • 65,000: The number of people who have fled el-Fasher in Darfur.
  • 5,000: The number of people who have managed to reach safety in Tawila.
  • 70 km: The distance from el-Fasher to Tawila, where people have escaped.
  • 2023: The year that fighting broke out between the military and the RSF.
  • 21st century: The century in which Sudan is experiencing the largest humanitarian crisis.

Sources:

  • "Sudan ministers express concern over lack of global attention to Darfur conflict". The Guardian, 16 December 2023 (no date mentioned in the original text)
  • "Sudan's Foreign Ministers Say UN is Failing to Act". Al Jazeera, 17 December 2023
  • "MSF chief lashes out at international community for ignoring 'drone-like' response to Sudan's exodus". The Telegraph, 19 December 2023