WASHINGTON 

The UN is facing "bureaucratic obstacles" to deliver aid to Sudan, a spokesman said Thursday.

"Sudan is one of these countries where we are facing bureaucratic obstacles to being able to deliver the aid that we need," Stephane Dujarric told reporters.

"The humanitarian access is being severely undermined by delays in visa approvals for humanitarian personnel."

Only 16% of visa applications were approved in March that can "seriously" affect life-saving operations if the trend continues, he added.

More than 400,000 people had to flee ongoing violence, he said, adding: "Access to Zamzam remains completely blocked."

The UN calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities in Sudan and urges all parties to uphold their obligations under international humanitarian law, ensure the protection of civilians, and allow "safe and unhindered" humanitarian access, Dujarric stressed.

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

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