UN Warns of 'Imminent Risk of Mass Atrocities' in Sudan's El Obeid

The United Nations Security Council has warned of an "imminent risk of mass atrocities" in El Obeid, a city in western Sudan that has become the center of intense fighting. The alert came on June 20, as battles between the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) continue to escalate. The conflict began in April 2023. It has killed tens of thousands of people and forced millions to flee their homes. The UN calls it one of the world's worst humanitarian crises. On June 18, the UN human rights chief, Volker Türk, issued a "stark warning" about the risk of atrocities. Reports say RSF forces are surrounding El Obeid. The Security Council is set to meet on Sudan on June 26. Experts say the council should discuss urgent steps to stop the RSF. They recommend new sanctions on RSF commanders and their key supporters, including backers in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Throughout the war, the RSF has received military support from the UAE. Human Rights Watch recently reported that hundreds of Colombian private military contractors traveled through UAE military facilities. The contractors, hired by a UAE-based company, then deployed to Sudan to support the RSF. Some governments are speaking out more loudly about the war crimes in Sudan. On June 18, Norway issued a warning to the RSF. It spoke on behalf of a new group called the Coalition for Atrocity Prevention and Justice for Sudan, formed at the UN Human Rights Council. The UAE's role is under growing scrutiny. Evidence of its material support to the RSF has led to calls for pressure on the Gulf nation. Leaders from Africa and members of the Atrocity Prevention Coalition are urged to break their silence. They should demand that the UAE end its support and use its influence to prevent more atrocities. The time for action is now. Governments must act to stop civilians from paying an immeasurable price.