The United Nations Human Rights Office has expressed deep concern over the worsening humanitarian crisis in Sudan, particularly in the southeastern state of Al Jazirah, as ethnic violence intensifies and the broader conflict threatens to engulf the capital, Khartoum.

During a press briefing in Geneva on Friday, January 17, UN Human Rights Office Chief Spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani highlighted reports of ethnically motivated killings in Al Jazirah and warned of a looming battle for control of Khartoum. Shamdasani called for an immediate end to hostilities and directly appealed to Sudan’s Transitional Sovereign Council President and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) Commander to take decisive action.

“The situation for civilians in Sudan is becoming increasingly perilous,” Shamdasani said. “Retaliatory attacks, marked by shocking brutality, against entire communities based on actual or perceived ethnic identity are increasing, as is hate speech and incitement to violence. This must be urgently stopped.”

Shamdasani criticised the protracted power struggle between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the RSF, which has exacerbated the country’s crisis over the past two years. She stressed that both parties must take responsibility for the conduct of their forces, which have contributed to widespread instability and civilian suffering.

Adding to the grim situation, reports have emerged of drone strikes in Omdurman on January 13, resulting in approximately 120 civilian deaths and over 150 injuries. The strikes have heightened fears of further violence as the conflict escalates.

The UN continues to urge all parties involved to prioritize civilian protection, adhere to international humanitarian law, and engage in dialogue to prevent further atrocities and displacement.