US announces $200 million aid boost as Sudan faces humanitarian crisis

This article was created by AI using a video recording of the meeting. It summarizes the key points discussed, but for full details and context, please refer to the video of the full meeting. Link to Full Meeting

During a recent UN Security Council session, Secretary of State Antony Blinken addressed the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Sudan, highlighting the dire conditions faced by the population. In Zamzam, reports indicate that residents are resorting to eating grass and peanut shells due to severe food shortages, with a child dying every two hours from starvation. Blinken emphasized that the ramifications of this crisis extend beyond Sudan, as over three million Sudanese have fled to neighboring countries, and external actors are exacerbating the conflict by arming both sides.

Blinken warned that failure to act in Sudan poses a threat to global peace and security, urging the international community not to ignore the humanitarian catastrophe unfolding. He noted that the United States has been a leading provider of humanitarian aid, announcing an additional $200 million in support, bringing the total U.S. assistance to over $2.3 billion since the conflict began last year.

The U.S. has also launched the ALPS initiative, in collaboration with Switzerland, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the UAE, the African Union, and the United Nations, aimed at advancing lifesaving efforts and peace in Sudan. This initiative incorporates Sudanese civil society, particularly women, who are disproportionately affected by the violence.

Blinken reported progress in humanitarian efforts, including the reopening of major transportation routes and the resumption of humanitarian air operations, which have significantly improved aid delivery. He noted that over 3.5 million people have received assistance, and vaccination efforts against cholera have reached 98% coverage in severely impacted areas.

Despite these advancements, Blinken stressed that much more needs to be done. He proposed four key actions to enhance relief efforts, including increasing the volume of aid distributed to meet the immense demand, which currently requires a monthly target of 40,000 metric tons. The Secretary's remarks underscored the urgent need for a coordinated international response to alleviate the suffering in Sudan and restore stability in the region.

Converted from Secretary Blinken participates in a UN Security Council Session on Sudan meeting on December 20, 2024
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