A significant wave of displacement has been observed in Hamra Sheikh, North Kordofan, Sudan, as civilians flee the area due to ongoing military operations. According to a statement by the Emergency Lawyers Group, obtained by Radio Dabanga, a large military deployment of Rapid Support Forces has been observed in the area, marking the first such deployment since the start of the conflict. The presence of military forces and equipment within residential areas has led to the displacement of civilians.

The Emergency Lawyers Group reported that some displaced individuals have been forced to stay in the open, while others have moved to Um Santah in North Kordofan or to the city of Ad-Dabba in the Northern state. The group expressed concern over the military deployment within residential areas, citing the risk it poses to the lives and safety of civilians, particularly in the absence of effective protection or humanitarian assistance.

North Kordofan has witnessed an escalation of military operations over the past week, with the Sudanese Armed Forces announcing control over several villages near Suduri and Al-Mazroub. The Emergency Lawyers Group condemned the military mobilization within residential areas, emphasizing the need for parties to the conflict to adhere to international humanitarian law, specifically the protection of civilians and civilian objects.

The group stressed that the presence of military forces near civilian populations requires strict adherence to international humanitarian law, including the distinction between civilians and military targets, and the taking of all precautions to avoid harm to civilians. They called for an end to military operations and attacks that put civilians at risk and for the protection of civilians and displaced persons.

The Emergency Lawyers Group also demanded the provision of safe havens for displaced persons, the facilitation of their movement, and the unhindered delivery of humanitarian assistance. They emphasized that displaced civilians remain protected under international humanitarian law and that any violations against them must be investigated and accounted for.

According to Radio Dabanga, the situation in Hamra Sheikh continues to deteriorate, with ongoing military operations and displacement of civilians. The Emergency Lawyers Group continues to monitor the situation and advocate for the protection of civilians.

The crisis in North Kordofan has led to a significant humanitarian concern, with many civilians displaced and in need of assistance. The situation remains volatile, with ongoing military operations and a risk of further escalation.

Key points

  • The military deployment within residential areas has led to a significant displacement of civilians.
  • The Emergency Lawyers Group has called for an end to military operations and attacks that put civilians at risk.
  • The situation in North Kordofan remains volatile, with ongoing military operations and a risk of further escalation.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.