Ceasefire violations continue in Sudan as humanitarian crisis worsens
Humanitarian situation in Sudan reached its breaking point as the warring factions continue to fight against each other. The conflict has reached its fifth week as both the sides refuse to give up the power struggle. This has led to widespread concerns in the international community as thousands of people are stranded in the cities without any aid.
Countries have started evacuating their citizens as violence and human right violations continue in Khartoum. United Nations and its various agencies are trying their best to provide sufficient aid to the people and help them in this precarious situation. WHO (World Health Organization) and UNICEF are providing medical and sanitation supplies to the citizens.
About the Sudan Conflict 2024
The North African country of Sudan has been under the control of President Omar al-Bashir for around 30 years suffering from international isolation, economic crisis and human rights violations. With the ouster of his regime in 2019, The country began its transition to democracy. This was followed by a military coup in 2021 by Lt Gen Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the army chief and Gen Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, head of Rapid Support Forces.
Soon, a power tussle started between the two Generals resulting in a violent conflict.
7-day ceasefire announced
Sudan’s army and Rapid Support Forces have agreed to a seven day ceasefire which was mediated by Saudi Arabia and USA. This ceasefire was announced after talks took place between the warring sides in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. There have been many ceasefire violations in the country including the ones which were brokered by USA and South Sudan. However this time a monitoring committee will be established to ensure that the ceasefire is not violated. This monitoring committee will consist of representatives from USA, Saudi Arabia and the warring factions.
Concerns over the Conflict
Various countries are concerned over this conflict in Sudan due to varying reasons. Countries like Russia, Italy, France, Britain, India etc. have evacuated their citizens from major cities of Khartoum and Darfur. Countries like UAE have invested huge sums of money in agricultural sector in the country and therefore the current conflict might impact its interests.
Countries like Russia and China also want to extend their influence in this region because of its strategic location on the Red Sea and its agricultural potential. At the same time, the western countries like USA want Sudan’s full transition to democracy to curtail the growing influence of Russia and China in the region.
India’s Operation in Sudan
India has launched its Operation Kaveri to evacuate Indian citizens from conflict ridden Sudan. This operation is being executed by the Indian Armed Forces. Under this operation, India has evacuated more than 3000 citizens from Khartoum and other major cities of Sudan.
Conflict in Khartoum has led to a lot of hostilities and violence with people suffering from food shortages and lack of essential supplies. Hundreds of people have been killed in this devastating crisis and thousands have been injured. In such a situation, it is imperative for the world community to come together and stop this conflict as soon as possible through dialogue and negotiations.
