G7 condemns Sudan paramilitary attacks on civilians, demands ceasefire

The Group of Seven nations has issued a strong condemnation of paramilitary attacks against civilians in Sudan, describing assaults by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in El-Fasher and North Kordofan as ethnically motivated. Following a two-day ministerial meeting in Niagara, Canada, the diplomatic leaders demanded an immediate and permanent ceasefire from both the RSF and Sudanese Armed Forces while calling for full humanitarian access to conflict-affected regions.

Joint Statement on Human Rights Violations

In their collective declaration, the foreign ministers from Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States, alongside the European Union's High Representative, specifically condemned sexual violence and emphasized the devastating humanitarian consequences of the ongoing conflict. The statement urged all combatants to respect human rights, de-escalate military operations, and guarantee safe passage for aid deliveries to address widespread famine conditions.

Support for Diplomatic Efforts

The G7 ministers expressed backing for ongoing diplomatic initiatives aimed at restoring peace and security in Sudan while calling on external actors to contribute positively to resolution efforts. Their statement comes amid United Nations warnings that conditions for Sudanese civilians continue to deteriorate, with humanitarian organizations reporting severe restrictions on accessing populations in need throughout conflict zones.

Conflict Background and Impact

The violent confrontation between the Sudanese military and the RSF paramilitary group, which began in April 2023, has resulted in at least 40,000 fatalities and displaced approximately 12 million people according to World Health Organization estimates. The RSF recently solidified control over Darfur by capturing El-Fasher, giving the paramilitary force dominance over approximately one-fifth of Sudan's territory, while the national army maintains control over most populated areas including the capital.