UN warns of possible civil war in Sudan after latest attack

The United Nations has issued a warning regarding escalating tensions in Sudan, expressing concerns about a potential civil war.

The alert follows an air force attack on a residential area in Khartoum, resulting in numerous casualties.

A video released by the Khartoum state health ministry shows the devastating aftermath of the attack, with bodies lying on the ground, some severely injured and covered hastily with sheets.

Among the victims were women, adding to the tragedy of the incident.

The bombing occurred in the Dar Al Salam neighborhood of Omdurman, a suburb northwest of Khartoum.

The Ministry of Health reported 22 fatalities and significant civilian injuries.

The Rapid Support Forces (FAR), in conflict with the army since April 15, expressed dismay over the loss of over 31 lives and numerous wounded.

However, the armed forces denied any involvement in hostile actions in Omdurman, contradicting resident testimonies confirming the airstrike.

The ongoing war between FAR paramilitaries led by General Mohamed Hamdane Daglo and regular troops under General Abdel Fatah al Burhan has lasted nearly three months, resulting in an estimated death toll of 3,000 people, though this number is believed to be underestimated.

The conflict has displaced nearly three million Sudanese, with over 600,000 seeking refuge in neighboring countries.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’ spokesperson, Farhan Haq, condemned the blatant disregard for humanitarian law and human rights, particularly in Darfur, a region previously affected by conflict.

The UN is concerned that Sudan is on the verge of an all-out civil war, with potential regional repercussions.

Additional reports indicate further airstrikes near the presidential palace in central Khartoum, along with clashes involving machine guns and artillery fire in the southern part of the city.

The conflict initially erupted in the capital but has spread to other regions, including Darfur, Kordofan, and Blue Nile.

The United States, Norway, and the United Kingdom hold the FAR and allied militias responsible for most of the atrocities, with the violence in western Darfur highlighting its ethnic dimension.

To seek a resolution, the UN and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (Igad) have organized a meeting in Ethiopia.

Heads of state or government from Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, and South Sudan will attend the gathering scheduled for Monday.

While the heads of Sudan’s army and the FAR have been invited, their attendance remains unconfirmed.

However, several Sudanese civilian figures will participate to expedite peace efforts.