GENEVA — A “human rights catastrophe” is unfolding in Sudan’s al-Obeid, the UN human rights chief has warned, as intensified fighting continues to put civilians at severe risk and deepen the country’s broader humanitarian crisis.
People continue to flee escalating violence in El Fasher, many arriving in Tawila with little or not
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk said reports from the region indicate a rapidly deteriorating protection environment, with civilians facing killings, displacement, and severe restrictions on access to basic services.
He said the situation reflects a broader collapse of civilian protection in parts of Sudan affected by ongoing conflict, urging all parties to immediately halt hostilities and comply with international humanitarian law.
Türk stressed that attacks on civilians, civilian infrastructure, and essential services such as hospitals and water systems could amount to serious violations of international law, calling for independent investigations into alleged abuses.
Humanitarian agencies have warned that the fighting around al-Obeid and surrounding areas has disrupted aid delivery, leaving many communities without reliable access to food, medicine, and emergency relief.
The UN says insecurity has also forced thousands of residents to flee their homes, adding to the growing number of internally displaced people across Sudan since the outbreak of conflict.
Türk reiterated calls for safe and unimpeded humanitarian access, saying aid workers must be allowed to reach vulnerable populations without obstruction or risk.
The UN has repeatedly urged renewed political engagement to end the conflict, warning that without a ceasefire the situation risks further escalation and wider regional instability.
