UNITED NATIONS, June 20 (Xinhua) -- The UN Security Council on Saturday expressed alarm at reports of substantial military reinforcements by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) around El Obeid, Sudan, which may indicate a potential ground offensive on the city.
In a press statement, the members of the Security Council expressed concern at the imminent risk of mass atrocities and demanded that the RSF immediately halt its assault on El Obeid.
They expressed deep concern over continued violence across Sudan, including reports of escalating violence in the Kordofan state, which risks further exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation. They called on the parties to the conflict to immediately halt the fighting.
The council members reiterated that all parties must protect civilians, allow and facilitate safe and unhindered humanitarian access, and allow civilians safe passage.
They urged all UN member states to refrain from external interference that seeks to foment conflict and instability, to support efforts for durable peace, to abide by their obligations under international law, and to implement relevant Security Council resolutions.
The council members unequivocally reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of Sudan. They reaffirmed their rejection of the establishment of a parallel governing authority in areas controlled by the RSF. ■
