El Geneina, September 30 (Darfur24)
The United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Sudan, Denise Brown, has called for urgent protection and safe passage for civilians trapped in El Fasher, North Darfur, amid escalating violence and severe humanitarian needs.
In a statement released on Monday, Brown said civilians in El Fasher face “impossible choices” — either remaining in a besieged city under daily bombardment or fleeing along routes where they risk violence, harassment, and looting.
The UN has received reports of unlawful killings, abductions, arbitrary detentions, and indiscriminate attacks on markets, hospitals, and places of worship.
Brown emphasized that under international humanitarian law, civilians must be protected, and safe passage must be guaranteed for those who wish to leave. She urged that exit routes remain “open, secure and accessible,” and that civilians who remain in the city receive protection and access to food, water, and essential supplies.
She called for the immediate lifting of the siege on El Fasher, an end to indiscriminate attacks, and the issuance of clear orders to prevent sexual violence and ethnically motivated assaults. Brown stressed that commanders and fighters are accountable for their actions under international law.
The statement also underscored the need to protect local responders and humanitarian workers who continue to deliver aid under dangerous conditions.
Quoting the UN Secretary-General, Brown reiterated the call for “immediate steps to protect civilians and enable the safe, unhindered and sustained delivery of humanitarian assistance into the area, and to allow any civilians seeking to leave the area voluntarily to do so safely.”