UNITAMS condemns targeting of civilians in Darfur

Moatinoon
The United Nations Integrated Transition Assistance Mission in Sudan (UNITAMS) expressed deep concern about the serious impact of fighting between the Rapid Support Forces supported by Arab militias and the Sudanese Armed Forces on civilians in the Darfur region.

The mission strongly condemned the indiscriminate targeting of civilian populations and public facilities by the Rapid Support Forces and allied militias, especially in Sirba locality, 45 kilometers north of Geneina in West Darfur, during the period from July 24 to 26, 2023. It also expressed concern about similar incidents in Nyala in South Darfur state and Zalingei in Central Darfur state.

Volker Perthes, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Sudan and Head of the United Nations Integrated Transition Assistance Mission in Sudan (UNITAMS), said: I am concerned about reports of civilians being prevented from leaving to safe areas, resulting in a large number of casualties. These reports remind us of the violations that occurred in Geneina, West Darfur, in June last year.

Perthes added, We are documenting all these violations and remind that these heinous acts constitute serious human rights violations against civilians and may constitute war crimes under international law. I remind all parties involved to comply with their obligations under international humanitarian law and international human rights law to ensure the safety and protection of all civilians.