Date: November 9, 2023
Overview:
The Fataheab region in Sudan is currently facing a severe humanitarian crisis marked by intense clashes between the armed forces and the Rapid Support Forces. The conflict has led to a significant loss of civilian lives, including children, and a dire shortage of essential supplies, exacerbating the suffering of the local population.
Background:
Geographical Scope: Fataheab encompasses eastern squares of Zalat (14, 11, 10, 8, 5, Haya Al-Safa) and western squares of Zalat (1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 12).
Population Displacement: High displacement in the eastern squares with an estimated 20,000 remaining population, while the western squares have a population exceeding 60,000, including displaced individuals from neighboring areas.
Siege Duration: The region has been under siege for approximately three months, resulting in a gradual decline in the flow of food and medical supplies.
Current Situation:
Blockade Impact:
Humanitarian Impact: The blockade has led to a shortage of food, medical supplies, and basic services, causing a humanitarian crisis.
Utilities Disruption: Water has been cut off for over three months, and electricity has been completely cut since October 20.
Casualties and Injuries:
Gunshot Injuries: 2,718 reported cases.
Fatalities: Over 120 deaths, with victims primarily from indiscriminate shelling.
Notable Incidents:
October 9: Fathi Ibrahim killed by stray bullets (Square 6).
October 25: Israa Murtadha, a child, killed by artillery shelling (Square 7).
October 27: Amina Qareeb Allah Abu Al-Qasim, a child, killed by a falling shell (Square 4).
November 1: Hassan Hashim (Sonny), a member of the Fataheab Emergency Room, shot and killed while volunteering at Abu Saad Hospital.
November 2: An elderly woman killed at an army checkpoint.
Community Demands:
Safe Passage: Urgent appeal to the Sudanese Armed Forces to open a safe passage through the engineering forces for the entry of food and medicine.
Cease Starvation Tactics: Call on the Rapid Support Forces to stop using starvation as a method of warfare and cease intimidating civilians with artillery shells.
International Aid: Request for international, regional, and local organizations to provide humanitarian aid to Fataheab residents through a secure passage.
Recommendations:
Given the gravity of the situation, immediate action is required to address the humanitarian crisis in Fataheab. Urgent efforts should be made to establish a safe passage for the delivery of essential supplies and medical aid, and international organizations should collaborate to provide necessary assistance to the affected population.