All parties involved in the ongoing conflict in Sudan must end attacks against civilians. This was stated today by Amnesty International, following the escalation of violence experienced in the last week in cities and towns across the state of Gezira. Families of the victims interviewed remotely by Amnesty International said Rapid Support Forces attacked Tamboul, Rufaa, Al-Hilaliya, Al-Seriha and Al-Uzibah in eastern Gezira, killing people in their homes, markets and in the streets; Furthermore, they looted places such as markets and hospitals. Likewise, according to the UN, thousands of people have been forced to move. “Reports of extreme violence coming from the Sudanese state of Gezira are alarming. Amnesty International calls on the Rapid Support Forces and the Sudanese Armed Forces to end all indiscriminate and deliberate attacks against civilians in the country. “All parties to the conflict must also allow the safe passage of civilians seeking to flee conflict zones and must ensure that they facilitate the unhindered and unrestricted delivery of humanitarian aid to all persons in need, without discrimination,” he said Tigere Chagutah, Eastern and Southern Africa Regional Director at Amnesty International. “All countries fueling this brutal conflict must immediately stop direct and indirect supplies of all types of weapons and ammunition to the two warring parties, and must respect and comply with the arms embargo imposed by the United Nations Security Council on Darfur”. A close relative of one of the victims, who is currently in the city of Kassala, said: “On October 20, my cousin, 42, and three other close relatives were killed by Rapid Support Forces in Tamboul. They killed my cousin in his house and my other three relatives in the market.” Three other people whose families were affected by the Gezira attacks told Amnesty International that some of their relatives are still missing. One person said: “My father, my aunt, my stepmother, my two uncles, my younger brother and my grandmother are all missing; They lived in Tamboul, which was attacked on Sunday 20 October by the Rapid Support Forces, and that was the last time we heard from them. We don’t know if they are alive or dead; “We are totally devastated.” Following the defection to the Sudanese Armed Forces of Abu Aqla Keikel, former commander of the Rapid Support Forces in Gezira state, the Rapid Support Forces launched a series of retaliatory attacks on 20 October against towns and villages from the east of said state, targeting communities in that area. According to the UN, at least 25 cases of sexual violence have been reported in several villages of Sharq Al-Jazira.
Interview between Time.news Editor and Human Rights Expert on the Situation in Sudan
Time.news Editor: Good morning, and thank you for joining us today. We are discussing the escalating violence in Sudan, particularly in the state of Gezira, where recent reports have painted a dire picture for civilians. Can you provide us with an overview of the current situation?
Human Rights Expert: Good morning! Certainly. The situation in Sudan, especially in Gezira, is indeed alarming. In recent weeks, we’ve seen a marked increase in violence, primarily attributed to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF). Families are being targeted in their homes and in public spaces, leading to an atmosphere of fear and instability. Alongside the loss of life, there’s extensive looting of essential services—markets and hospitals—which exacerbates the humanitarian crisis.
Time.news Editor: Amnesty International has called for these parties to cease attacks against civilians. What do you think it will take for them to heed these calls?
Human Rights Expert: That’s a critical question. International pressure is key, but it must be sustained and unified. The RSF and SAF have shown little regard for civilian life, and past experiences suggest that merely issuing statements isn’t enough. We need a coordinated effort from global powers and regional actors to impose consequences for these actions. This could include sanctions or diplomatic isolation. Furthermore, a clear message must be sent that there will be accountability for war crimes and human rights violations.
Time.news Editor: It seems that humanitarian delivery has become increasingly difficult. What are the implications of this for the civilian population in these conflict zones?
Human Rights Expert: The implications are severe. When humanitarian aid gets obstructed, vulnerable populations—particularly those displaced by violence—are left without food, medical care, or shelter. The UN has already reported forced displacements in thousands. In situations like this, diseases can spread quickly, and the lack of access to food can lead to malnutrition. It’s not just about immediate survival; this conflict is likely to have long-term impacts on the community’s health and stability.
Time.news Editor: The international community has a role to play, then. What specific actions should they be considering?
Human Rights Expert: Yes, absolutely. First, they need to advocate for the safe passage of civilians fleeing conflict zones and ensure secure routes for humanitarian aid. This includes negotiating ceasefires that prioritize civilian safety. Second, deploying peacekeeping forces or observers might also help deter further violence. Lastly, there’s a need for an international tribunal to investigate and prosecute those responsible for these violations, which could prevent further atrocities.
Time.news Editor: We can’t forget the role of social media and technology in contemporary conflicts. How has this influenced the situation in Sudan?
Human Rights Expert: Social media has become a double-edged sword. On one hand, it enables rapid dissemination of information, allowing organizations like Amnesty International to gather testimonies from victims and alert the world. On the other hand, governments may use technology to target dissent and manipulate narratives. For civilians, the challenge is often how to ensure their voices are heard amidst the chaos and misinformation.
Time.news Editor: What message do you want to send to those in positions of power within Sudan and the broader international community?
Human Rights Expert: It is imperative that those in power remember their obligations to protect their citizens. For the international community, it’s a call to action—don’t wait for another tragedy to unfold before taking decisive steps. We must promote accountability, ensure that humanitarian aid reaches those in need, and uphold the principle that indiscriminate violence against civilians is unacceptable.
Time.news Editor: Thank you for your insights on this complex and troubling situation. Let’s hope for a swift resolution and improved conditions for the people of Sudan.
Human Rights Expert: Thank you for having me. It’s crucial that we keep this conversation alive. The world must not turn a blind eye to the suffering in Sudan.