African Union Calls for Sudan Ceasefire as Violence Escalates in El Obeid

The African Union has called for a ceasefire in Sudan as violence around El Obeid has escalated, and the humanitarian situation has been deteriorating nationally.

In a statement on June 22,  Chairperson of the AU Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, sounded the alarm about the growing insecurity in and around El Obeid, North Kordofan State, and the fragile and ever-worsening security and humanitarian situation in the country.

“All sides to stop fighting and to show maximum restraint and to comply strictly with their international humanitarian law obligations and the provisions of the Jeddah Declaration, which requires, in particular, respect for the civilian population and for humanitarian access on an unimpeded basis,” the AU stated formally.

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AU’s Demand for Humanitarian Aid Delivery and Condemnation of Attacks on Civilians in Sudan

Youssouf announced and urged that the parties should fulfill their legal duties for relief efforts and provide aid to the civilians who are caught in the crossfire.

He warned that the AU will not permit violations of innocent civilians and will bring those perpetrators to justice.

The Chairperson also emphasizes the need for accountability for all violations and abuses committed against civilians and calls on all external actors to avoid any actions that could escalate the conflict.

The AU did not mention any parties or external actors in the statement, but the call reinforces increasing concern over renewed fighting in North Kordofan and the limited delivery of assistance.

AU stated that El Obeid, one of the key towns of the region, has been engulfed in serious fighting in recent weeks, with its roads closed to supplies and thousands displaced.

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African Union Calls for Peace and Support for Sudan Amidst the Ongoing Conflict

The African Union reaffirmed the AU’s support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Sudan and called for a political settlement.

“The African Union resets its unwavering commitment to the sovereignty, unity, independence, and territorial integrity of the Republic of Sudan, further calls upon the international community to re-engage and support an inclusive political process that will facilitate the achievement of peace, stability, and constitutional order in Sudan, ” said Youssouf.

The statement was made over two years since the beginning of the Sudanese war between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

Many ceasefires have failed since April 2023, and the UN agencies have stated that 25 million people need humanitarian aid.

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Armed fighters in Sudan, as the African Union urges all parties to immediately cease hostilities and allow unhindered humanitarian access amid escalating violence around El Obeid. Credits Files