Saudi Arabia condemns Rapid Support Forces crimes and calls for the protection of civilians
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia expressed its strong condemnation and denunciation of the ongoing crimes and attacks perpetrated by the Rapid Support Forces in Sudan, which directly targeted civilian infrastructure, including a bus transporting displaced persons, health facilities, and aid convoys. These brutal attacks resulted in the deaths of dozens of unarmed civilians, including women and children, in flagrant violation of all humanitarian values and international conventions.
Details of the violations in Kordofan
The ministry explained that the attacks were concentrated in the states of North and South Kordofan, where the attacking forces deliberately targeted civilians fleeing the ravages of war, in addition to destroying vital infrastructure and obstructing the delivery of humanitarian aid. The Kingdom affirmed that these criminal acts cannot be justified under any pretext and constitute a clear violation of international humanitarian law, which mandates special protection for civilians and aid workers during armed conflicts.
Commitment to the Jeddah Declaration and international laws
In a related context, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia reiterated the necessity of adhering to the outcomes of the “Jeddah Declaration,” signed on May 11, 2023, which clearly stipulates the commitment of both parties to the conflict to protect civilians in Sudan and to refrain from any attack that would harm the population or civilian infrastructure. This condemnation highlights the significant gap between the signed pledges and the practices on the ground, which exacerbate the suffering of the brotherly Sudanese people.
The Kingdom's firm stance towards the unity of Sudan
The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized the Kingdom's firm stance calling for the preservation of Sudan's unity, security, and stability, and the necessity of protecting legitimate state institutions from collapse. It also expressed its categorical rejection of all forms of foreign interference that contribute to fueling the conflict, including the continued flow of illicit weapons and the entry of mercenaries and foreign fighters into Sudanese territory, which complicates the political and military situation and prolongs the war.
Call to immediately halt the escalation
The ministry concluded its statement by calling on the international community and these forces to immediately cease these violations and to uphold their moral and humanitarian obligation to ensure safe passage for aid to reach those affected. It noted that the current behavior of some parties, despite their claims of supporting a political solution, is a major factor in the continued bloodshed in Sudan and the exacerbation of the humanitarian crisis faced by millions of Sudanese.
