UN warns of mass displacement and access obstacles in North Darfur

The United Nations warned Monday that reports from El Fashah and Zamzam camp in North Darfur describe killings, sexual violence and large-scale displacement that have generated massive humanitarian needs.

The warning came in remarks relayed by the U.N. spokesperson quoting the secretary-general and humanitarian officials, who said the humanitarian community faces critical operational challenges and called on parties to the conflict to respect international humanitarian law and allow full access for relief supplies.

Why it matters: Humanitarian partners say disruption to services in North Darfur threatens food security and increases the risk of malnutrition and famine for displaced civilians. The UN also urged donors to provide rapid, flexible funding to sustain relief operations.

The briefing said the under-secretary-general for humanitarian affairs, Tom Fletcher, spoke separately with senior commanders of the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces to secure commitments for access to civilians. The U.N. referenced a statement from the resident humanitarian coordinator in Sudan, identified in the briefing as Clementine Cortesalami, describing intensifying operational difficulties caused by forced displacement from established infrastructure and humanitarian services.

The U.N. called on all parties to allow unhindered aid deliveries, protect civilians and respect international humanitarian law. The spokesperson said the U.N. remains mobilized to reach and support affected populations.

The U.N. did not provide at the briefing a consolidated tally of displaced persons or a precise funding gap for North Darfur-specific operations; those figures were not specified in the remarks.

Looking ahead: The U.N. urged immediate donor support and reiterated appeals for safe humanitarian access as the situation continues to evolve.