By Roy Lie Atjam
On November 21, 2024, the Embassy of Sudan in the Netherlands held a critical press briefing to address the urgent humanitarian and conflict situation in Sudan. The situation has escalated dramatically since 2023, marked by severe humanitarian crises, widespread violence, human rights violations, and acute food shortages.
This briefing highlighted the immediate need for action. In 2023, Sudan plunged into conflict as long-standing tensions between Army Chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) leader Mohamed Hamdan “Hemedti” Dagalo erupted into a devastating war. The clash between these two powerful factions has been described as an “existential battle,” leading to millions of people fleeing their homes, hundreds of thousands dead, and countless others facing starvation.
Ms. Omaima Alsharief, the Chargé d’affaires a.i. of Sudan in the Netherlands, delivered a firm update on the dire state of affairs in Sudan, underscoring the struggles and resilience of the Sudanese people. Accompanied by a short video presentation, she engaged openly with the media in attendance.
Ms. Omaima Alsharief, expressed disappointment over the stalled Jeddah talks which were intended to resolve the catastrophic humanitarian situation arising from the conflict between the Sudanese army and its rival paramilitary force.
Moreover, Russia’s recent veto of a United Nations Security Council resolution—co-authored by the UK. and Sierra Leone—calling for an immediate ceasefire is unacceptable, especially as Sudan continues to endure this devastating war.
With no one expecting a complete victory from either side, the pressing question remains: How do we effectively stop the war in Sudan?