Geneva, May 20 ( Darfur 24)
The UN expert on the situation of human rights in Sudan, Radhouane Nouicer, warned on Monday that the escalation of attacks on Port Sudan could exacerbate the humanitarian crisis and endanger the lives of civilians.
In a statement obtained by Darfur 24, Nuwaiser said that the long-range drone attacks on Port Sudan represent a sharp escalation and push the conflict “to a new level.”
He explained that Port Sudan, located on the Red Sea coast in eastern Sudan, has been a lifeline for humanitarian operations and a safe haven for displaced persons since the outbreak of the conflict in April 2023.
He added: “The unprecedented escalation nearly two weeks ago—attributed to the Rapid Support Forces—targeted vital civilian infrastructure, including the city’s main power station, fuel and gas storage facilities, and the international airport.”
He confirmed that several attacks occurred near densely populated areas in Port Sudan, forcing displaced persons to flee once again in search of safety.
He continued: “Repeated attacks on vital infrastructure endanger the lives of civilians, exacerbate the humanitarian crisis, and undermine basic human rights.”
He expressed deep concern about the widespread power outages and their impact on fuel supplies, “which hinders access to rights.” Basic rights, such as the right to food, safe drinking water, and healthcare.”
He noted that some medical facilities in Port Sudan and Kassala have already been forced to operate at reduced capacity.
The UN expert emphasized that the recent strikes targeting Port Sudan are part of “an increasing pattern of attacks on critical infrastructure, including power plants in Northern, River Nile, and White Nile states.”
He called on all parties to the conflict to comply with their obligations under international humanitarian law and international human rights law, which include refraining from launching deliberate attacks against civilians and civilian objects, and respecting the principles of proportionality and precaution.