BERLIN: The Group of Seven (G7) foreign ministers and the European Union’s foreign policy chief on Wednesday called for an immediate halt to attacks in Sudan’s city of El-Obeid, urging all warring parties to cease hostilities, protect civilians and allow unhindered humanitarian access.
In a joint statement, the G7 specifically urged the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and allied armed groups to end actions that could lead to further atrocities or endanger civilians in El-Obeid.
What Did the G7 Call for in Sudan?
The G7 and the European Union called on all parties to the conflict, including the Sudanese Armed Forces, to immediately cease fighting and engage in good-faith negotiations aimed at ending the conflict.
The statement also stressed the need to ensure safe and unrestricted humanitarian access for civilians affected by the violence and expressed support for ongoing United Nations efforts to de-escalate the crisis.
Why Is the G7 Seeking a Wider Arms Embargo?
The G7 backed calls for the United Nations Security Council to expand the existing Darfur arms embargo to cover the whole of Sudan, arguing that broader restrictions are necessary to curb the flow of weapons fueling the conflict.
The ministers also urged external actors to immediately halt military and financial support to the rival factions, warning that continued assistance risks prolonging the conflict and worsening the humanitarian situation.
The joint statement reaffirmed the G7’s commitment to supporting international efforts to end the conflict and protect civilians as Sudan continues to face one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises.