The G7 Foreign Ministers and the High Representative of the European Union have issued a statement marking two years since the war in Sudan began. They denounce the ongoing conflict and human rights abuses occurring in the country due to the actions of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
The statement highlights the severe humanitarian crisis affecting the Sudanese population, including incidents of widespread violence and displacement. "As a direct result of the actions of the SAF and the RSF, the people of Sudan, especially women and children, are enduring the world’s largest humanitarian and displacement crises, and continued atrocities, including widespread conflict-related sexual violence, ethnically motivated attacks and reprisal killings. These must end immediately," the ministers expressed in their statement.
The G7 condemns specific attacks by the RSF in El Fasher targeting IDP camps such as Zamzam and Abu Shouk, noting the impact on civilians and humanitarian workers. "Civilians must be protected and allowed safe passage," the statement asserts.
As famine spreads, the ministers express concern over reports of the use of starvation as offensive leverage, stressing its prohibition under international law. The statement urges adherence to humanitarian obligations and the Jeddah Declaration commitments, emphasizing protection for civilians and engagement in negotiations.
They call for "an immediate and unconditional ceasefire" and for both factions to engage in sincere talks, with external actors ceasing support that intensifies the conflict. The ministers stress the importance of including Sudanese civilians in peace initiatives for sustainable resolution and advocate for democratic transition, supporting the people of Sudan in pursuing a free and just future.
"The sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of Sudan are paramount," the ministers concluded, reaffirming G7's commitment to diplomatically address the crisis and facilitate peace.
