UN relief chief sounds alarm over escalation in Sudan's North Kordofan

Our Privacy Statement & Cookie Policy By continuing to browse our site you agree to our use of cookies, revised Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. You can change your cookie settings through your browser. Women and children queue to receive free food being distributed in al-Mohayra camp for displaced people, near the city of El-Obeid in the southern Kordofan region, June 29, 2026. /VCG UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher on Tuesday warned of escalation in Sudan's North Kordofan. "I am again sounding the alarm on the escalating violence and rapidly deteriorating humanitarian situation in Sudan's North Kordofan region. We cannot allow (North Kordofan capital) El Obeid to become another El Fasher," said Fletcher in a statement. The siege and capture of El Fasher, the capital city of North Darfur state, by the Rapid Support Forces in September and October 2025 had led to a massacre of civilians in the city. Intensifying drone attacks are killing civilians across North Kordofan, and the risk of deeper human suffering is rising. Hundreds of thousands of civilians are in El Obeid, including many displaced by fighting elsewhere. Drone strikes are disrupting access to life-saving drinking water and electricity. With the rainy season approaching, safe water is critical to reduce the risk of cholera and other deadly waterborne diseases, said Fletcher.  The humanitarian community is working around the clock to help people in El Obeid, a vital hub for relief operations across the region.  "I call for an immediate end to attacks, including drone attacks, on populated areas and critical civilian infrastructure. Civilians who wish to leave El Obeid must be able to do so safely. Whether they leave or remain, they must be protected and have access to essentials for survival," Fletcher said. Humanitarian workers must be able to move safely and without impediment to reach people in need, he added, noting that all parties to the conflict have clear obligations under international humanitarian law to protect civilians, including humanitarians, and to facilitate rapid, unhindered humanitarian relief.