UN warns of risk of new bloodshed in Sudan's El Obeid

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has issued a stark warning regarding the escalating conflict in El Obeid, North Kordofan state, Sudan. His spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, conveyed Guterres's deep concern over the intensification of fighting, which has included drone attacks on civilians and non-military infrastructure. The UN chief highlighted reports of substantial military reinforcements by the Rapid Support Forces around El Obeid, indicating a potential ground offensive that could place another major urban center at severe risk of widespread violence.

Guterres implored all parties to exercise self-restraint and take necessary measures to protect civilians, stressing that clear warnings during the conflict have not led to coordinated international action. He urged those with influence over the warring factions to intervene and prevent further bloodshed, explicitly stating, "We must not allow the atrocities of El Fasher to be repeated in El Obeid." The UN calls for immediate mobilization and a cessation of hostilities.

The Secretary-General reiterated his plea for an immediate halt to the fighting and called on the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces to cooperate with international efforts, including those led by his Special Envoy for Sudan. The objective is to de-escalate the situation and find a negotiated solution to end the devastating conflict. Despite the deteriorating security, humanitarian organizations continue their work in El Obeid and the wider Kordofan region, though humanitarian workers have been among the civilian casualties. The UN emphasized the need for safe passage for humanitarian personnel and supplies, and for the protection of humanitarian operations, as El Obeid is a critical hub for relief efforts.

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We must not allow the atrocities of El Fasher to be repeated in El Obeid.