ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia

African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf expressed deep concern on Monday over the escalating violence in Sudan, particularly in the North Darfur region.

In a statement, Youssouf deplored the current situation, citing reports of intensified attacks near El Fasher, including fatal assaults in the Zamzam and Abu Shouk displacement camps.

“These attacks have resulted in the deaths of civilians, including children and humanitarian workers,” Youssouf said, calling the violence “an unacceptable and grave violation of international humanitarian and human rights law.”

The AUC chief also offered condolences to the families of the victims and the Sudanese people, calling for an immediate and unconditional cessation of hostilities.

He urged those besieging El Fasher to lift the blockade and allow unhindered humanitarian access.

The African Union recalled previous Peace and Security Council communiques, emphasizing the urgent need to de-escalate the conflict in order to protect civilians and restore peace, and urging all parties to exercise maximum restraint and avoid actions that could exacerbate tensions.

“The well-being of the Sudanese people must remain the foremost priority,” the statement said, stressing the importance of creating a peaceful environment for long-term stability and development.

Since April 15, 2023, the RSF has been battling the Sudanese army for control of the country, resulting in thousands of deaths and one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises.

More than 20,000 people have been killed and 15 million displaced, according to the UN and local authorities. Research from US scholars, however, estimates the death toll at around 130,000.

In recent weeks, the RSF has lost significant territory across Sudan to government forces.