The European Union expresses concern over escalating violence in the city of Al-Bayda, northern Sudan

Brussels, July 10 (KUNA) -- The European Union expressed deep concern on Friday over the escalating security situation in Al-Bayda, the capital of North Kordofan state in Sudan, warning that the large-scale deployment of Rapid Support Forces troops threatens the lives of approximately 500,000 civilians residing in the city, including around 100,000 internally displaced persons.

In a statement issued on behalf of High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas, the EU called on the Rapid Support Forces to immediately halt all military operations within Al-Bayda and its surroundings that endanger civilians, emphasizing that the city “must not become another El Fasher.”

The statement stressed the necessity for all parties to the conflict to respect international humanitarian law and international human rights law, including the protection of civilians, particularly women and girls, as well as civilian infrastructure. It clarified that any attack targeting the civilian population, obstructing their safe passage, or deliberately hindering the delivery of humanitarian aid to those in need constitutes a violation of international humanitarian law. The EU indicated that it would consider taking “strict measures” against those responsible for such violations.

The EU called on all external parties to adhere to their commitments under the Berlin Principles and to end any direct or indirect support that contributes to the continuation or escalation of the conflict. It also renewed its call on all parties to the conflict to return to the negotiating table to achieve a permanent ceasefire and ensure the rapid, safe, and unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid in accordance with humanitarian principles, alongside supporting a Sudanese-led civilian political process that leads to the restoration of civilian rule, strengthens accountability, and upholds international law.

Reaffirming its role as a member of the Sudan Contact Group (the “Quint”), the EU affirmed its commitment to continuing support for the Sudanese people and working with international partners to end their suffering, promote justice and accountability, and restore peace through a transition led by Sudanese civilian forces. (End) Arn / M.M. J