UN experts have called for an immediate arms embargo on Sudan and accountability for serious human rights violations, warning that the country’s civil war is escalating with devastating consequences for civilians.
The UN Independent International Fact-Finding Mission in Sudan said on Tuesday that the conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has escalated, deepening the humanitarian crisis and fueling widespread violence, displacement and famine.
“The conflict in Sudan is far from over,” said Mohamed Chande Othman, who heads the mission. “The scale of human suffering is increasing as the collapse of governance, militarization of society and foreign interventions plunge the country into deeper turmoil.”
Tens of thousands of people have been killed and more than 13 million displaced since the war began in April 2023. Infrastructure such as hospitals, homes and markets were severely damaged or destroyed.
The mission reported an increase in attacks using heavy weapons in civilian areas and widespread sexual and gender-based violence. Aid workers and medical facilities were also repeatedly targeted, severely impeding access to humanitarian assistance.
“What began as a political and security crisis has escalated into a serious human rights emergency, with international crimes committed by all parties to the conflict,” said mission member Mona Rishmawi.
The Fact-Finding Mission also accused both the SAF and the RSF of atrocities, including mass killings, torture and summary executions. The denial of humanitarian assistance, particularly in areas such as Darfur, has worsened conditions by contributing to famine.
“Justice and accountability are not optional; they are essential for lasting peace,” said mission member Joy Ngozi Ezeilo, stressing that human rights issues must be at the core of any peace talks.
Othman concluded by calling on all UN member states to comply with Security Council Resolution 1556, which includes provisions for a full arms embargo: “The international community must act now to prevent further suffering.”