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Rabat – Against the backdrop of the sacred month of Ramadan, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres issued an appeal on Monday for ceasefires in both Sudan and Gaza, highlighting the urgent need to halt the bloodshed and address the dire humanitarian crisis gripping Sudan.
As Muslims worldwide embark on a month of fasting, prayer, and reflection, Guterres emphasized the significance of honoring the spirit of Ramadan by silencing the guns and facilitating unhindered access to crucial humanitarian aid in conflict-affected regions.
While the beginning of Ramadan typically heralds a time of peace and solidarity, Guterres lamented the continuation of violence and suffering, particularly in Gaza and Sudan, where conflict has exacted a heavy toll on civilian populations.
“Today, above all, I want the spirit of Ramadan to be honored by silencing the weapons and removing all obstacles to delivering humanitarian aid at the speed and scale required,” stressed Guterres during a press briefing.
Guterres’ call for ceasefires resonates with recent developments, including the adoption of resolution 2724 in 2024 by the UN Security Council, which highlighted the imperative of seeking sustainable solutions through dialogue among all parties involved.
In Sudan, the UN Integrated Transition Assistance Mission (UNITAMS) recently concluded its withdrawal, leaving a residual team to oversee the liquidation process. In this context, Guterres highlighted the pressing need for continued efforts towards peace and stability.
At a recent Security Council meeting, he acknowledged the challenges ahead, stating; “While this mission has ended, our collective work for peace must continue and intensify.”
Sudan, ravaged by conflict, faces one of the most severe humanitarian crises globally, with staggering figures reflecting the scale of the catastrophe. Half of the population — approximately 25 million people — are in urgent need of vital aid, according to the United Nations Office for Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).
Moreover, the conflict has resulted in the internal displacement of 6.3 million people within Sudan, making it the epicenter of the world’s largest internal displacement crisis.
Additionally, another 1.7 million Sudanese have sought refuge in neighboring countries, exacerbating the regional humanitarian strain.
In Gaza, since October 7, at least 30,960 Palestinians have been killed and 72,524 wounded in attacks by Israeli occupying forces.
Guterres emphasized that a ceasefire during Ramadan could provide a much-needed respite for the people of Sudan and Gaza, allowing humanitarian aid to reach those in desperate need.
