Volker Perthes, the head of the UN mission in Sudan, has expressed concern that the conflict in Sudan could escalate into an ethnic and tribal civil war as both sides intensify efforts to recruit fighters. Perthes emphasized the need for accountability for the crimes committed during the conflict, which has the potential to become a regional crisis.

The ongoing violence, marked by human rights violations such as murder, rape, and looting, has fueled a growing desire among ordinary Sudanese to see an end to the warring factions. Although Perthes did not directly call for the International Criminal Court (ICC) to take action, he acknowledged that the ICC is monitoring the situation.

The conflict, which has been ongoing for three months, has resulted in around 3,000 deaths and raised concerns of potential crimes against humanity in Darfur. Perthes highlighted the humanitarian catastrophe caused by the conflict, impacting Sudan and putting pressure on neighboring Chad, as well as the potential implications for Europe due to migration flows. Perthes supported diplomatic efforts led by regional organizations and neighboring countries to find a peaceful resolution and urged countries supplying support to either side to cease their involvement and push for a ceasefire.

The UN mission’s operations are being run by Perthes’ deputy on the ground in Port Sudan, while the main office is being relocated to Nairobi, Kenya. The conflict continues to displace millions of people within Sudan and drive hundreds of thousands to seek refuge in neighboring countries.