The United States expresses deep concern over the escalating shelling by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in the regions of Nyala, South Darfur, and Karari, Omdurman, which is causing increased hardship for the Sudanese population.
Disturbing reports indicate that RSF, along with the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), is engaged in combat within the city of Nyala and that there is a potential encirclement of the city in preparation for an assault, thereby restricting the ability of civilians to seek safety.
The reports also highlight that the RSF has initiated shelling and blocked access to the Hasahisa Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in Central Darfur.
The United States is urging the RSF to immediately halt its shelling of civilian areas and to ensure the protection of civilians in Nyala, Omdurman, and across Sudan. This ongoing conflict, which has persisted for over six months, has resulted in civilian casualties, the displacement of millions, and widespread suffering that will impact Sudanese generations to come.
Particularly concerning is the heavy toll this conflict has imposed on women and children.
It is important to emphasise that there is no viable military resolution to this conflict.
Any perceived “victory” by either side would lead to an unacceptable cost for the Sudanese people and their nation.
The United States reiterates its call for the RSF and SAF to immediately cease hostilities and return to negotiations aimed at a peaceful resolution to this conflict.
Furthermore, the United States is reminding the RSF and SAF of their obligations under the May 11 Jeddah Declaration of Principles to safeguard the civilians of Sudan.
These commitments include ensuring unhindered access to humanitarian aid, protecting the rights and safety of civilians, and adhering to international humanitarian and human rights laws.
The time has come for an end to this protracted conflict and the alleviation of the Sudanese people’s suffering.
