Saudi Arabia at the Human Rights Council: Commitment to ending the Sudan crisis
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, through its Permanent Mission to the United Nations in Geneva, reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to continuing diplomatic and humanitarian efforts aimed at ending the ongoing conflict in Sudan. This commitment was reiterated during its participation in the enhanced interactive dialogue on Sudan at the 61st session of the Human Rights Council. This Saudi initiative stems from a sense of historical and fraternal responsibility towards the brotherly Sudanese people and a keen desire to restore security and stability to the region.
Jeddah Track: The Cornerstone of a Political Solution
The Kingdom’s Permanent Representative, Ambassador Abdulmohsen bin Khathila, reviewed the tireless efforts led by Riyadh since the outbreak of the conflict in mid-April 2023. These intensive diplomatic efforts culminated in Jeddah hosting negotiations between the two parties to the conflict (the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces), which resulted in the signing of the historic “Jeddah Declaration” on May 11, 2023. This declaration is a fundamental reference document that obliges the parties to protect civilians, facilitate the unhindered passage of humanitarian aid, respect the rules of international humanitarian law, and establish confidence-building measures in preparation for a permanent ceasefire.
Condemnation of the escalation in El Fasher and violations of international law
In discussing the developments on the ground, the Kingdom expressed its deep concern and strong condemnation of the recent attacks launched by the Rapid Support Forces on El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur State. The Kingdom indicated that this escalation constitutes a grave violation of international humanitarian law, resulting in a large number of civilian casualties, the destruction of vital infrastructure, and the targeting of humanitarian convoys that are a lifeline for those affected in these disaster-stricken areas.
Background of the crisis and its regional repercussions
Saudi Arabia's actions are of paramount importance given the complex context of the Sudanese crisis, which has created one of the world's largest displacement crises. Since the outbreak of war, Sudan has faced existential challenges threatening its unity and social fabric, with the risks of famine and disease spreading. The repercussions of this conflict are not limited to Sudan alone, but extend to negatively impacting the stability of the entire region and the security of the Red Sea, making the Saudi role pivotal in containing the crisis and preventing its escalation.
Ongoing humanitarian and political commitment
The Kingdom concluded its statement by reaffirming its unwavering position calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities and rejecting any actions that could fuel or prolong the conflict. It emphasized that it will continue working with international partners and UN organizations to alleviate the suffering of the Sudanese people and ensure that humanitarian aid reaches those in need, striving towards a comprehensive political solution that guarantees Sudan's unity, sovereignty, and stability.
