Sudan Must Keep Commitments On Darfur

Fresh fighting has broken out in the Darfur region of Sudan. Thousands there have once again been forced to flee their homes after attacks by the Sudanese Government-supported Rapid Support Forces with reported air attacks by the Sudan Air Force. This has increased pressure on humanitarian groups working to help the displaced, a task made harder by government forces refusing to allow both aid groups and peacekeepers with the joint African Union-United Nations Mission in Darfur, or UNIMID, any access to the area to investigate the incidents.

Sudan Must Keep Commitments On Darfur

The Sudanese government made commitments to the United Nations and African Union to allow peacekeepers unhindered access to the region to protect civilians. These pledges must be kept.

The United States is deeply concerned by the recent escalation of violence in Darfur. We condemn attacks on civilians and call on the Government of Sudan to prevent further violence and cease its own campaign of aerial bombardments.

Two recent incidents illustrate the scope of the violence. On February 23, members of the RSF attacked and robbed persons living in the Kalma refugee camp near Nyala, Sudan. Four days later, on February 27, the RSF burned homes and attacked civilians near Nyala itself. Media reports said the Sudanese Air Force supported the operation, resulting in many casualties and forcing thousands to flee the area.

The people of Darfur have suffered insecurity, violence and atrocities for far too long. Together with the international community we urge the Sudanese government and the armed movements to begin an inclusive, holistic and comprehensive dialogue to achieve a peaceful resolution to the conflicts in Sudan and reestablish the rule of law.