Sudan faces imminent famine risk as international coalition demands aid access

The United States and dozens of international partners have issued a joint warning regarding the rapidly worsening hunger crisis in Sudan, calling on warring factions to immediately clear the way for humanitarian relief.

In a joint statement published by the U.S. State Department, the coalition cautioned that Sudan faces a looming threat of famine in the coming months. The governments urged both the Sudanese military and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces to eliminate barriers preventing aid delivery, grant access across domestic conflict lines and national borders, and permit air transport into the western region of Darfur.

The signatory nations stressed that global donors must quickly boost funding and that international financial bodies should adjust existing programs to confront the escalating emergency. The statement noted that the combating sides hold the chief responsibility for reducing the severe hardships endured by civilians across the country.

Signatories to the appeal include Britain, France, Germany, Australia, the United States, and the European Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness and Crisis Management, alongside numerous other nations. The coalition also appealed to the fighters to safeguard aid workers and cease targeting civilian infrastructure.

Sudan plunged into conflict in April 2023 following a power dispute between the national army and the RSF over proposals to integrate their forces during a planned shift toward civilian governance. The ensuing warfare has forced more than 14 million people from their homes. Compounding the devastation of the fighting, agricultural production has collapsed as local farmers deal with ongoing clashes and severe drought conditions.

Data from the United Nations-backed Integrated Food Security Phase Classification showed in June that 5.1 million people across Sudan were enduring severe levels of hunger. International monitoring bodies have repeatedly warned that prolonged disruptions to food supplies and aid delivery could push regions into full-scale famine.

The protracted conflict has also seen widespread reports of atrocities. Washington has accused the RSF of committing genocide and alleged that the Sudanese military has engaged in war crimes, allegations that both parties have previously rejected. A United Nations investigation reported earlier this year that the paramilitary group orchestrated ethnically targeted massacres, sexual violence, and deliberate starvation during urban sieges. In September, the U.S. State Department stated that neither faction represents the legitimate or constitutional authority of Sudan.