Sudan is grappling with one of the world's most acute humanitarian crises, exacerbated by the prolonged civil war between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Since the war erupted in April 2023, the conflict has devastated the nation, displacing millions and plunging approximately 26 million people—about half the population—into urgent need of humanitarian assistance.
The fighting's toll has been catastrophic. Health systems, already under strain, have been reduced to rubble, with many hospitals destroyed and access to medical supplies dwindling. Diseases such as cholera and malaria are on the rise, worsening the already fragile health situation across the country. The United Nations has characterized the situation as the world's largest displacement crisis, estimating more than 11.5 million people have been forced from their homes.
According to recent reports, approximately 3 million people face acute hunger across Sudan. The World Food Programme (WFP) issued dire warnings, highlighting the potential for the conflict to trigger the "world's largest hunger crisis." The situation is so desperate, it led to the official recognition of famine at the Zamzam refugee camp, where around half a million individuals are sheltering.
The conflict has seen fierce battles rage on multiple fronts, particularly affecting areas like Khartoum, Darfur, and Kordofan. Reports from the UN revealed alarming numbers, stating at least 64 civilians were killed due to the recent attacks on markets and civilian infrastructure. Edem Wosornu, the director of operations and advocacy at the UN humanitarian agency, spoke at a recent UN Security Council meeting, lamenting, "Millions are stalked by the threat of famine in the world's largest hunger crisis. Sexual violence rife。”
Sudan's Foreign Minister, Ali Yusuf, emphasized the dire humanitarian needs, recognizing Türkiye’s contributions to relief efforts. "Under President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Türkiye has displayed a generous and positive stance toward the Sudanese people and government during the war," he stated, noting over 8,000 tons of aid has been delivered since the fighting intensified.
The humanitarian assistance from Türkiye follows countless failed ceasefire agreements brokered by international mediators, mainly from Saudi Arabia and the United States. Despite their efforts, violence continues to ravage communities. Ahmet Yılmaz, Türkiye's U.N. envoy, recently urged for urgent international action, stating, "To help the Sudanese people, we must focus on the causes of the disease, not the symptoms alone." He highlighted the Jeddah Declaration as key to resolving the crisis.
The crisis is exacerbated by increasing foreign interference. Reports have emerged implicting nations such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Iran, and Russia, with allegations of arms supplies flowing to both warring factions. Amnesty International reported on the involvement of these countries, which may include violations of existing arms embargoes.
On December 18, during discussions at the UN Security Council, the topic of the UAE's involvement was raised. Sudanese Ambassador Al-Harith Mohamed accused the UAE of supplying the RSF with heavy weaponry and leveraging the war for resource exploitation. "This 'War of Honor' is targeting Sudan's identity, existence and people who are paying the heavy price for it," accused Ali Yusuf, as he called for more international scrutiny over foreign arms supplies.
Looking forward, there's hope for mediation efforts, particularly following Türkiye's offer to facilitate dialogue between Sudan and the UAE, which could prove pivotal. Yusuf expressed optimism, pointing to Erdoğan's previous successes as a mediator, especially between Ethiopia and Somalia.
Despite the grim outlook, the international community has begun to respond. On December 19, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced $200 million in additional humanitarian assistance. This support is expected to address food, shelter, and healthcare needs targeting the most vulnerable populations affected by the conflict.
The combination of military strife, humanitarian disaster, and international political dynamics presents a complex challenge for Sudan. With forecasts indicating the humanitarian crisis will escalate, significant and immediate action is required from the global community to prevent the impending famine and to seek lasting peace.
The urgent situation continues to demand attention as the humanitarian needs grow by the day. Without decisive action, opposing forces may continue to plunge Sudan's people even closer to catastrophe.
