The Arab League issued an urgent warning about the humanitarian crisis in the city of El Obeid in Sudan's North Kordofan state. Secretary-General Nebil Fehmi announced that more than half a million civilians are besieged by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and are under constant bombardment.
In a written statement, Fehmi said they are monitoring the situation in the city with great concern. He stressed that among the besieged civilians are tens of thousands of displaced people. He reported that the attacks are targeting civilian infrastructure such as marketplaces, schools, hospitals, and water and electricity facilities.
War Crime Warning
The Arab League Secretary-General warned that if the military buildup and attacks on populated areas continue, the atrocities seen in El Fasher could be repeated despite international warnings. Fehmi noted that this could lead to severe violations amounting to war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Regional and International Efforts
Fehmi stressed the need to respect Sudan's unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity. He supported efforts to end the conflict and pave the way for an inclusive political process to protect civilians. In this context, he highlighted the work of the quintet mechanism comprising the Arab League, African Union, United Nations, European Union, and Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD).
UN Takes Urgent Step
The Arab League's warning came a day after the UN Human Rights Council adopted a decision to launch an urgent investigation into violations against civilians in El Obeid. UN officials are also stepping up warnings of a humanitarian disaster as RSF attacks on the city continue.
For about a month, El Obeid has been subjected to drone attacks targeting the main power plant, fuel stations and civilian sites. Deaths and injuries have been reported in the attacks. The war between the Sudanese army and the RSF, ongoing since April 2023, continues with fierce clashes in the Kordofan states.
