Sudan’s Ongoing Humanitarian Crisis: A Call to End the Violence
For nearly two years, the people of Sudan have been trapped in a devastating conflict that has created one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises. The war has displaced nearly 10 million people, with women and girls subjected to kidnapping and sexual assault. Famine has taken hold in Darfur, threatening millions more. And now, the city of El Fasher, home to nearly two million people, is under siege by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
The situation is dire, and it’s imperative that the belligerents responsible for Sudanese suffering – the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the RSF – take immediate action to end the violence. The RSF must stop its assault on civilians, while the SAF must cease indiscriminate bombings that are destroying lives and infrastructure. Both sides must also allow unhindered humanitarian access to all areas of Sudan.
The United States stands in solidarity with the Sudanese people, having pressed for peace and held accountable those seeking to perpetuate violence. We have worked to rally international partners, end hostilities, protect civilians, and expand humanitarian access. Our efforts have secured new routes into Darfur and Khartoum, enabling desperately needed aid to reach those in need. However, more must be done.
As the world’s largest provider of assistance to the Sudanese people, we have committed over $1.6 billion in emergency aid over the past two years. We have also determined that members of the SAF and RSF have committed war crimes, crimes against humanity, and ethnic cleansing. The U.S. Treasury Department has sanctioned 16 entities and individuals for their role in the conflict.
Let it be clear: the United States will not abandon its commitment to the people of Sudan, who deserve freedom, peace, and justice. We call on all parties to this conflict to end the violence and refrain from fueling it, for the future of Sudan and for all Sudanese people. It’s time for a peaceful resolution to this devastating crisis.