By Adeyemi Adekunle
In a bid to alleviate the mounting humanitarian crisis in Sudan, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is set to announce additional funding for relief efforts and civil society support at the United Nations this Thursday. The announcement comes at a critical juncture for Sudan, where over 12 million people have been displaced due to the ongoing conflict between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
Speaking ahead of the UN Security Council meeting, Deputy U.S. Representative to the United Nations Ned Price confirmed that Blinken would unveil the new financial commitments during a high-profile session focused on humanitarian aid and civilian protection. The meeting, which Blinken will chair, is expected to shine a global spotlight on Sudan’s dire situation and amplify international calls for sustained support.
“The conflict in Sudan has tragically evolved into one of the most devastating humanitarian crises of our time,” Price said. “Our aim is to ensure that Sudan does not become a forgotten conflict. The U.S. is committed to keeping the situation front and center on the international stage.”
For more than 18 months, Sudan’s army and the RSF have been embroiled in brutal combat, leaving tens of thousands dead and millions more displaced. U.N. agencies have struggled to deliver aid due to the insecurity and challenges in accessing affected regions. Despite these obstacles, U.S.-mediated peace talks held in Geneva earlier this year have resulted in promises from the warring factions to improve humanitarian access, though no significant progress has been made toward a ceasefire.
In his remarks, Price emphasized the U.S. commitment to securing better aid access and a cessation of hostilities before the end of President Joe Biden’s term. “We will continue working with our allies and partners to ensure the delivery of critical aid and press for a halt to the violence,” he said, underscoring the urgency of the situation. “Humanitarian relief is needed now more than ever.”
The additional funding, which will be directed toward relief operations and supporting civil society, is expected to bolster the efforts of organizations on the ground, providing essential food, medical care, and shelter to those in need. The U.S. government’s strategic focus will also include efforts to support Sudan’s eventual transition to democracy, which has been severely hindered by the ongoing conflict.
The situation in Sudan remains one of the most pressing humanitarian crises in the world. The U.N. estimates that over 12 million people have been displaced, and many face dire living conditions in overcrowded refugee camps or in exile in neighboring countries. Human rights organizations have raised alarms about the violence, atrocities, and widespread suffering endured by civilians caught in the crossfire of the conflict.
The U.S. has previously committed substantial resources to Sudan’s relief efforts, but the deepening crisis requires continued international collaboration. As Blinken prepares to make his announcement, global attention will likely intensify on the need for a comprehensive resolution to the conflict and a lasting peace that can restore stability to the region.
In his concluding remarks, Price made it clear that the U.S. would not relent in its efforts to address the crisis. “We will not rest until we have made every possible effort to alleviate suffering and help pave the way for a peaceful Sudan,” he said.
With global attention focused on the U.N. meeting, Thursday’s announcements by Blinken are poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the international response to Sudan’s ongoing humanitarian emergency.
