Thu Sep 19 07:27:40 UTC 2024: ## UK Condemns RSF Assault on El Fasher, Calls for End to Sudan Violence

**New York, [Date]** – The UK has strongly condemned the Rapid Support Forces’ (RSF) assault on El Fasher in Sudan, calling for an immediate end to the fighting and the lifting of the siege. This statement was made by UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador James Kariuki, at a UN Security Council meeting requested by the UK following alarming reports of escalation in the region.

“We call on the RSF to halt its siege of the area and for an immediate end to the fighting,” said Ambassador Kariuki. “Aerial bombardments, shelling, and other combat activity by the warring parties have resulted in further displacement and destruction of critical infrastructure.”

The UK also urged all member states to uphold the arms embargo on Sudan, which was renewed last week, and to refrain from enhancing the fighting capabilities of either side.

Ambassador Kariuki stressed the importance of holding the warring parties accountable for violations of international law. “The escalation around El Fasher clearly contravenes resolution 2736 agreed by this Council in June,” he said. “We must continue to send a clear message to the warring parties that we are watching closely.”

The UK acknowledged the Secretary-General’s ongoing work to produce recommendations for the protection of civilians in Sudan, highlighting the urgency of this effort in light of the recent events in El Fasher.

The statement also expressed concern over the devastating humanitarian impact of the violence across Sudan, noting that over 10 million people have been displaced. “A new wave of violence will exacerbate this even further,” warned Ambassador Kariuki. While welcoming the recent re-opening of the Adre border crossing, the UK stressed the urgent need to scale up humanitarian access, both across borders and conflict lines, ensuring that bureaucratic impediments do not hinder aid delivery.

The UK concluded by reiterating its call for both warring parties to return to good-faith negotiations and bring an end to the violence.

Read More