The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) has issued an urgent appeal for greater international support for Sudan, highlighting that humanitarian needs are rapidly increasing while funding is falling critically short.

Derk Segaar, IFRC Special Envoy for Sudan, described the situation as "one of the world’s largest humanitarian crises, yet it is also one of its most overlooked." His remarks followed a visit to Sudan, where he witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of the ongoing conflict.

During his visit, Segaar met with volunteers, communities, and partners, observing the immense humanitarian needs exacerbated by the war. While some aid has reached the Kordofan and Darfur regions, the entirety of Sudan, including Khartoum, has been severely affected. Millions in the capital lack consistent access to electricity, clean water, and healthcare, with cholera, malnutrition, and floods posing significant additional risks.

The IFRC's appeal comes as the conflict, which erupted in April 2023 between the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese military, shows no signs of abating. The war has resulted in a devastating humanitarian crisis, with 35 million people requiring assistance, over 9 million internally displaced, and 4.5 million having fled the country.

Conflict monitoring group Armed Conflict Location and Event Data reports at least 59,000 deaths, though aid organizations believe this figure is a substantial undercount. The protracted fighting has led to widespread destruction and displacement, severely impacting the lives of millions.

Amidst the escalating crisis, Sudanese Army Lieutenant-General Yasser al-Atta, speaking to soldiers, stated that the military is advancing on all fronts with the objective of eliminating the RSF by the end of the year. He expressed determination to remove all RSF and foreign fighters from the country.

Al-Atta's comments were made shortly after the army and allied forces reportedly conducted operations. The Sudanese military has been engaged in a protracted struggle against the RSF since the initial outbreak of hostilities, aiming to consolidate control over the nation.

The IFRC's call for increased international engagement underscores the critical need for sustained humanitarian aid and support to help communities in Sudan cope with the devastating consequences of the prolonged conflict and to begin the process of rebuilding their lives.