UN envoy warns of growing risks in El Obeid as Sudan conflict drags on
Speaking to reporters at UN Headquarters in New York, Pekka Haavisto said the situation in El Obeid, capital of North Kordofan state, had become increasingly concerning in recent days amid ongoing hostilities and frequent drone strikes. “We are alarmed of the ongoing hostilities around the city, including frequent drone strikes,” he said. “These are already affecting the civilians and affecting humanitarian aid to the city. Any further escalation of the situation would place thousands of people at risk.”The envoy drew parallels with previous crises in Sudan, particularly in Darfur and around El Fasher, where violence against civilians triggered large-scale humanitarian disasters.“Unfortunately, the situation reminds us a little bit of the earlier developments in Darfur and around El Fasher and reminds that there are immediate risks for the civilian population,” he said.Mr. Haavisto revealed that he had spoken by telephone on Friday with General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, leader of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), regarding developments in El Obeid. According to the envoy, Hemedti assured him that civilians would not be targeted. “He confirmed to me that his intention is not to harm the civilians, and his intention is to protect the humanitarian corridors to the city,” Mr. Haavisto said. “This is something that we have to now follow as exactly as we can.”
