KSrelief Chief Addresses Sudan Crisis at UNGA Meeting

In recent times, Sudan has faced a humanitarian crisis that has drawn the attention of the international community. The ongoing conflict has led to widespread suffering, with millions of people displaced from their homes. In light of this dire situation, the Supervisor General of King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center, Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al-Rabeeah, took part in a crucial meeting focused on Sudan during the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

The meeting, titled “The Cost of Inaction - Urgent and Collective Support to Scale Up the Humanitarian Response in Sudan and the Region,” aimed to rally support for humanitarian efforts in Sudan and its neighboring areas. High-level representatives from Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United States, the European Union, and the African Union gathered to discuss the pressing need for action.

Dr. Al-Rabeeah emphasized Saudi Arabia's commitment to aiding Sudan, stating that the Kingdom has “made great efforts since the beginning of the crisis in order to find means to bring hope back to” the country. He highlighted initiatives such as the Jeddah declaration, which focuses on protecting civilians and ensuring humanitarian access. Furthermore, he mentioned the working group's efforts to save lives and restore peace in Sudan, particularly in the troubled region of Darfur.

However, the situation remains critical. Al-Rabeeah pointed out that the recent escalation of violence has exacerbated the crisis, forcing millions to flee their homes and leaving families separated. In response to this urgent need, Saudi Arabia has allocated $3 billion in assistance, which has been distributed across various regions and humanitarian sectors.

Even before the crisis intensified in April 2023, KSrelief had shifted its focus towards implementing sustainable interventions. Despite the challenges posed by the deteriorating security situation, the organization has redoubled its efforts, launching projects worth $73 million since the onset of the crisis.

Dr. Al-Rabeeah also noted that the Kingdom, in collaboration with the UN and other humanitarian organizations, has been delivering assistance through land and sea routes. The support provided to the Sudanese people has exceeded $125 million. Yet, he stressed that significant challenges remain, and a coordinated effort is essential to ensure unhindered humanitarian access and a sustainable response to the crisis.

In his closing remarks, Al-Rabeeah called upon the international humanitarian community to respond to the crisis in Sudan without letting political considerations interfere. He described the situation as a “humanitarian tragedy” that necessitates overcoming existing divisions. The Kingdom is committed to ensuring that the necessary assistance reaches the Sudanese people, highlighting the importance of unity and collaboration in addressing such pressing humanitarian issues.

As the world watches the unfolding events in Sudan, it is crucial for nations to come together and prioritize humanitarian needs over political agendas. The plight of the Sudanese people serves as a reminder of our shared responsibility to support those in need, regardless of borders or differences. Only through collective action can we hope to alleviate the suffering and restore hope to those affected by this crisis.