By: ATN News
United Nations: In a decisive move amid escalating humanitarian concerns, the United Nations Security Council today adopted Resolution 2736 (2024), demanding the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) immediately cease their siege of El Fasher, North Darfur. The resolution, passed with 14 votes in favor and one abstention by the Russian Federation, emphasizes the urgent need for de-escalation and the protection of civilians in the conflict-ridden region.
Resolution 2736: Key Directives and International Cooperation
Resolution 2736 (2024), formally documented as S/RES/2736 (2024), calls for the immediate withdrawal of all combatants posing threats to civilian safety. It advocates for enhanced local mediation mechanisms and insists on unhindered humanitarian access, urging all parties to facilitate the safe passage of relief aid. The Council also tasked the Secretary-General, in collaboration with Sudanese authorities and regional entities, to propose further measures for civilian protection.
Global Reactions: Strong Appeals for Peace and Humanitarian Aid
Following the resolution's adoption, the United Kingdom’s delegate, who introduced the proposal, underscored the catastrophic potential of an RSF attack on El Fasher, home to 1.5 million vulnerable individuals. The resolution aims to establish a localized ceasefire and foster broader de-escalation efforts across Sudan. Highlighting the severe humanitarian needs, she urged Sudanese authorities to cooperate with UN agencies to scale up aid distribution.
The United States representative emphasized the dire situation in El Fasher, where civilians are besieged by heavily armed RSF forces, facing imminent famine and a severe shortage of essential supplies. She called for tangible results on the ground, stressing that the Council’s effectiveness would be judged by its impact on the Sudanese people’s lives.
Regional Support and Calls for Non-Interference
Sierra Leone’s speaker, representing Algeria, Guyana, and Mozambique, highlighted their support for the resolution, emphasizing the Council’s responsibility to address the urgent crisis. He reiterated the resolution’s demand for non-interference by external actors and condemned those facilitating arms transfers to Darfur.
Switzerland’s delegate reinforced the message to RSF to end the siege and cease hostilities, emphasizing adherence to international humanitarian law. She pledged continued engagement in discussions and close monitoring of the resolution’s implementation, particularly regarding civilian protection.
Malta’s representative expressed grave concerns over the risk of famine and the recent assault on a hospital in El Fasher, resulting in the deaths of humanitarian workers. He condemned the massacre in Wad Al-Noora, advocating for compliance with arms embargo measures and humanitarian law.
Dissenting Voice: Russian Federation’s Position
The Russian Federation abstained from the vote, with its delegate criticizing the resolution for disregarding Sudanese perspectives and infringing on the country’s sovereignty. She argued against the call for free humanitarian access, emphasizing national sovereignty over border control and condemning the resolution as an overreach.
China’s Caution and Appeal for International Aid
China, voting in favor, cautioned against the deepening humanitarian crisis due to ongoing conflict. The representative highlighted the insufficient funding for Sudan’s humanitarian response plan and called on international donors to provide substantial aid. He commended the Sudanese Government’s efforts and urged respect for Sudan’s sovereignty, expressing hope for a swift return to peace.
Conclusion: A Call for Immediate Action
As the Security Council takes a firm stance against the siege of El Fasher, the international community’s focus shifts to ensuring that the resolution's directives translate into immediate and effective action on the ground. The dire humanitarian situation demands urgent attention, and the world watches closely, hopeful for a cessation of violence and a pathway to peace and stability in Sudan.
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