In a statement issued on Sunday 17 December, the spokesperson for the European External Action Service (EEAS) expressed the EU’s dismay at the spread of fighting in Sudan, urging the Rapid Support Forces to withdraw from Gezira State and to put an end to the fighting in El Fasher.
According to the spokesperson, “credible reports” indicate that fighting is spreading to Wad Madani (Gezira State) and that El Fasher, in North Darfur, remains under constant threat of attack. This information comes a few days after the Sudanese Rapid Support Forces and armed forces made solemn commitments to the heads of state and government of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) in favour of a cessation of hostilities and political dialogue (see EUROPE 13311/38).
While a state of emergency has been declared in the state of Gezira and humanitarian aid suspended, the spokesperson pointed out that Wad Madani has been “a refuge for many fleeing the conflict and a vital hub for humanitarian relief”.
“We remind both the Rapid Support Forces and the Sudanese Armed Forces of their obligations under international law to protect civilians and guarantee humanitarian access. Those who fail to meet these obligations will be held accountable”, the spokesperson warned. (Original version in French by Camille-Cerise Gessant)