UAE Raises Alarm Over Sudan Famine, Supports Urgent UN Security Council Meeting

The United Arab Emirates is deeply concerned about the severe humanitarian crisis in Sudan, where over 25 million people face extreme food insecurity. The situation is particularly dire in North Darfur's Zamzam camp, which houses more than half a million displaced individuals. Famine has been declared in parts of this region, and there is a high risk of famine in Abu Shouk and Al Salam camps, as well as nine other states experiencing catastrophic hunger conditions.

The UAE welcomes the UN Security Council meeting that underscores the urgency of addressing the famine in Sudan. The international community must maintain its focus on this crisis to ensure effective intervention. Trucks loaded with lifesaving aid are currently stuck at Sudan's border while thousands suffer from starvation across the country, including in Zamzam Camp and Northern Darfur.

The UAE calls for an emergency response to secure a ceasefire and facilitate the swift delivery of humanitarian aid. The Sudanese Armed Forces need to lift restrictions on humanitarian access, and the Rapid Support Forces must allow organisations and workers to operate safely without fear of attack. This will enable them to reach those in desperate need.

The UAE condemns the use of starvation as a weapon of war and the denial of humanitarian access to civilians. Indiscriminate attacks that prevent people from receiving assistance are clear violations of international humanitarian law. The UAE stresses the need for urgent cross-border and cross-line humanitarian access to save millions of lives.

The international community cannot permit the people of Sudan to be used as political bargaining chips. The UAE urges the Security Council to use all available tools to address this catastrophic situation. This includes potentially authorising UN agencies to deliver aid across both cross-line and cross-border routes if necessary.

Ceasefire and Diplomatic Efforts

The UAE reiterates its call for an immediate and permanent ceasefire, urging warring parties to prioritise human life over military objectives. They must allow unhindered, safe, rapid, and sustained passage of humanitarian assistance throughout the country. Engaging in peace talks towards a civilian-led transition is crucial.

The UAE appreciates the efforts of the United States in organising upcoming ceasefire talks in Geneva, as well as those of Saudi Arabia and Switzerland for co-hosting these discussions. The UAE remains committed to supporting all diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving a peaceful resolution to this conflict.

Financial Commitment

As a long-standing humanitarian partner in Sudan, the UAE has allocated USD 70 million through UN agencies and humanitarian organisations to address urgent needs within Sudan. Additionally, USD 30 million has been allocated to support regional countries hosting Sudanese refugees.

The UAE's commitment highlights its dedication to alleviating suffering and promoting stability in Sudan through substantial financial contributions and diplomatic support.

With inputs from WAM