Seven European countries call for de-escalation in Sudan amid severe humanitarian crisis

Italy, France, Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands, Norway, and the United Kingdom issued a joint statement Tuesday, calling for an immediate de-escalation in Sudan amid a deepening humanitarian crisis. The seven European nations urged all parties involved in the conflict to halt further offensives and prevent additional suffering.

The ministers voiced profound concern over the continuous offensive targeting Al Obeid, a critical logistical and military center connecting central Sudan with the Darfur region. They highlighted that recent drone attacks on the city have resulted in civilian casualties and exacerbated the already dire shortages of fuel, food, and water. The statement also condemned deliberate attacks against humanitarian workers providing vital assistance.

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The civilians must be able to leave the area safely and all parties must ensure rapid, safe and unhindered humanitarian access.

Credible indications of an imminent offensive prompted the group of countries to issue a stark warning: "This is a decisive moment and the international community must act." They specifically implored the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) to cease their offensive immediately, emphasizing the need for civilians to evacuate safely. Simultaneously, they called upon the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and their allies to de-escalate, respect international humanitarian law, and uphold commitments made under the Jeddah Declaration.

Recalling the atrocities witnessed in Al Fasher last year, which were described as potential genocide, the ministers stressed the imperative to prevent similar tragedies from recurring. They affirmed their commitment to working within the UN Security Council and with regional and international partners to foster a unified response: the violence must end, civilians must be protected, and perpetrators must be held accountable. The group also reaffirmed its dedication to supporting a credible path to peace through the Quintet-led process, inviting all parties to engage in good-faith negotiations.

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The year before last, the international community watched in horror at the atrocities perpetrated in Al Fasher, crimes that were considered to be genocide. We cannot allow such tragedies to be repeated.