UN Applauds Sudan’s Decision To Reopen Key Border for Humanitarian Aid

UN Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed Sudan’s recent decision to reopen the Adre border crossing with Chad, which will enable humanitarian assistance to reach the war-torn Darfur region. According to his spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, Guterres acknowledged the reopening as “the most direct and efficient route” to provide aid to millions in Darfur who are currently suffering from severe hunger.

Guterres stressed the need for lasting and substantial efforts to ensure aid can reach those in need and called on all Sudanese parties to adhere to their international humanitarian obligations. “Humanitarian organizations must have full, safe, and unhindered access to reach all civilians in need across Darfur and the country as a whole,” said the statement. The United Nations remains committed to collaborating with all involved parties to help resolve the ongoing conflict and ease the suffering of the Sudanese population.

The decision by Sudan’s Transitional Sovereign Council to reopen the Adre crossing will last for three months, facilitating aid deliveries to those affected by the ongoing violence. The conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which erupted in April 2023, has led to over 16,650 deaths.

Earlier this year, the Sudanese government closed the Adre crossing, accusing the RSF of using it to smuggle weapons.