Dutch Foreign Min. shares EU's call for humanitarian aid in Sudan

The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces in Sudan must allow humanitarian aid into the besieged city of El Fasher, caretaker Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp said, reiterating a call from the European Commission and 29 European countries. The RSF has sealed off the city for some time, and residents are facing hunger and severe shortages.

EL Fasher is located in Sudan’s Darfur region and is the last city there still held by government forces. The fighting between the army and the RSF in the East African country has been going on for two years and has led to massive famine, cholera outbreaks, and millions of refugees.

“Hundreds of thousands of Sudanese civilians are trapped in and around the city of El Fasher,” said NSC Minister Veldkamp. “They are facing famine and violence. All warring parties must comply with international law. They must allow humanitarian aid quickly, safely, and unconditionally.”

According to the European Commission, 60 people have already died in the city from malnutrition in the past week. Because all supply routes have been cut off, there is hardly any food left in the city, and prices have risen sharply. Aid organizations also have no access to El Fasher, according to the Commission.

The situation in the Kordofan region is similar. The situation for residents is particularly dire in the besieged city of Kadugli, according to the Commission.

The Commission also reported that violence against women and girls is increasing dramatically. In addition, many attacks are being carried out on civilian targets like hospitals and markets. As a result, few people still have access to healthcare.