EU calls for easing of violence in Sudan after El-Fasher seizure
(MENAFN) The European Union expressed serious concern over the takeover of El-Fasher, Darfur’s capital, by Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), describing the event as a “dangerous turning point” in the ongoing conflict.
In a joint statement, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas and Commissioner Hadja Lahbib highlighted that “civilians targeted on the basis of their ethnicity highlight the brutality of the RSF.” The EU urged all parties to immediately de-escalate tensions in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2736 and respect international humanitarian law, including commitments under the Jeddah Declaration of Commitment to Protect the Civilians of Sudan.
The statement stressed that the RSF bears responsibility for protecting civilians, humanitarian workers, local responders, and journalists in areas under its control. “Humanitarian organisations must be granted immediate, safe and unconditional access to all those in need. Civilians wishing to leave the city must be allowed to do so safely,” it said.
The EU reaffirmed its backing for relief operations and ongoing negotiations toward a permanent ceasefire, adding, “The EU is in contact with the conflict parties and international partners to urge them to return to the negotiating table.” It also reiterated support for international accountability efforts to address war crimes and crimes against humanity.
The takeover follows reports from armed groups supporting the Sudanese army accusing the RSF of killing 2,000 civilians in El-Fasher on October 26-27, claims the RSF has denied, asserting that it was “cleansing El-Fasher of the last army and allied forces attempting to flee the city.”
Since April 15, 2023, clashes between the army and RSF have caused thousands of deaths and displaced over 15 million people, despite numerous regional and international mediation attempts.
Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the
information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept
any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images,
videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information
contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright
issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.
Legal Disclaimer:
EIN Presswire provides this news content "as is" without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
