05.16.23

Sudan caught in ongoing armed conflict

  News

Sudan is currently grappling with an escalating crisis as the country becomes engulfed in heavy fighting. A power struggle between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has unleashed violence and chaos, causing immense suffering for the people.

As the conflict intensifies, the need for humanitarian assistance becomes more crucial than ever. In this critical time, Islamic Relief has taken swift action, standing in solidarity with the people of Sudan and mobilising crucial aid to alleviate their suffering.

An Outbreak of Violence

On Saturday, April 15, Sudan was plugged into a state of turmoil. Heavy fighting erupted between the country’s two largest armed groups, the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), both vying for power.

Tension had been building between the armed groups for weeks. The calm in Sudan was eventually shattered by the sounds of armed weapons echoing through the streets of the capital, Khartoum.

In their own homes, residents stood frozen, uncertain of when the fighting would subside. Fighter planes dominated the skies, as the military launched air attacks to target RSF forces hidden in residential neighbourhoods.

Civilians in Sudan Struggle to Find Refuge

As the conflict in Sudan escalated, the world turned its attention to the unfolding crisis. The violence spread beyond Khartoum, reaching other cities like Merowe, an important economic centre, known for its gold mines and military airport. The Wadi Halfa border crossing with Egypt, crucial for trade and travel, was also affected.

The chaos and peril generated by the situation prompted the international community to take action, making preparations to evacuate their citizens from Sudan. Meanwhile, the Sudanese people themselves desperately sought means to escape the escalating violence.

Photo: Heavy fighting broke out in Khartoum, Sudan between the nation’s largest armed forces, leaving countless civilians dead, injured and struggling to find safety.

The closure of Khartoum airport, a direct result of the intense fighting, further hindered the escape efforts of the affected population. Families were left with no choice but to embark on difficult journeys, enduring hardships and paying expensive fees, in order to reach safer locations such as Port Sudan, Egypt, Ethiopia, and Chad.

Unfortunately, not everyone had the opportunity to flee. Many Sudanese people remain trapped in deteriorating humanitarian conditions. The shortage of essential supplies, coupled with the unrelenting threat of bombardment, further compounded their already dire situation.

The People of Sudan are in desperate need of aid

Despite mediation attempts from international organisations, the reports from civilians on the ground indicate that the violence shows little sign of easing.

The situation is compounded by the shortage of food and medical supplies, placing vulnerable populations at risk of hunger and inadequate healthcare. As of April 20, a report by the Central Committee of Sudanese Doctors (CCSD) revealed that 39 out of 59 hospitals in Khartoum and neighbouring provinces are currently non-operational, posing significant challenges to accessing vital medical assistance.

As the death toll and the number of injured and displaced continues to rise, the protection of innocent lives and the alleviation of human suffering have become urgent priorities in Sudan. Together, our international community stand in solidarity with the people of Sudan to grant them hope for a more stable and peaceful future.

Islamic Relief is providing urgent emergency assistance in Sudan

In the face of this dire situation, Islamic Relief has been at the forefront, working tirelessly to provide aid and support to the affected communities in Sudan.

Our teams on the ground are delivering life-saving assistance, including food, clean water, medical supplies and emergency shelter. We are collaborating with local partners and volunteers to reach as many vulnerable individuals as possible.

In this critical time, your support can make a significant difference in the lives of those affected by the crisis in Sudan.

Give today to provide urgent relief to those in need.

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