** In Sudan, El Fasher’s tragedy: reflection on a humanitarian attack **
The attack on a humanitarian convoy, which occurred on Monday evening near the city of El Fasher, in the province of Darfur Nord, revealed to what extent the humanitarian situation in Sudan is precarious and complex. The detonation that struck this convoy of the World Food Program (PAM) and UNICEF, carrying vital aid for thousands of people, caused the death of five humanitarian workers and the destruction of part of the cargo intended to relieve the suffering of populations on the verge of famine. This tragic fact has aroused immediate reactions and on several levels, from international authorities to simple citizens.
### The difficult humanitarian context
After more than two years of devastating conflict, Sudan faces one of the most serious humanitarian crisis in the world, with more than 4 million inappropriate people and millions of others confronted with unmet basic needs. The city of El Fasher, in particular, is besieged by paramilitaries, amplifying the despair of its inhabitants, whose access to food and medical products has become extremely limited. In such a volatile context, the routing of humanitarian aid becomes not only a fundamental act of solidarity, but also a challenge that exposes workers and organizations to increased dangers.
### condemnation of attacks on humanitarian convoys
The violent impact on humanitarian operations, punctuated by the recent attack, underline a largely ignored problem: respect for international humanitarian law. The UN Secretary -General has supported by condemning acts of violence against humanitarian workers, as was UNICEF, which called “unacceptable” attack. The question then remains: how can we guarantee the security of humanitarian convoys in conflict areas where the front lines are vague and the motivations of the actors present are varied?
### Population reactions: striking anger
The inhabitants of El Fasher, faced with the constant threatening violence and in inhuman living conditions, express a mixture of anger and helplessness. A resident testified to his indignation at the attack, stressing that the aid would have saved lives in a context where the markets are empty and the prices inaccessible. This anger reflects a deep feeling of abandonment and despair among those who fight daily for their survival.
### to a broad reflection
This tragic incident cannot be interpreted in isolation. It is part of a series of systemic problems in Sudan, whose roots plunge into decades of conflicts and political crises. The need to restore peace and security in the country is crucial, but how to achieve it? Is the international community mobilized enough to intervene not only to respond to humanitarian emergencies, but also to initiate a dialogue of lasting peace?
The survey requested by the UN could be a first step towards empowering the actors involved in violence against humanitarian convoys. However, the true effectiveness of this approach will depend on the sincere commitment of the international community to support endogenous peace initiatives, thus allowing Sudanese to regain control over their destiny.
### Conclusion: A call to action
El Fasher’s attack is a brutal reminder of the need to protect not only the ways of transporting humanitarian aid, but also human lives behind each figure that we count. The words of condemnation, although necessary, must be followed by concrete actions. It is imperative to explore solutions which are not limited to immediate assistance, but which seek to establish solid bases for lasting peace and shared prosperity.
The reaction of local and international communities must be organized around a constructive dialogue, aimed at exploring how everyone can help to mitigate suffering and build a future where security and respect for fundamental rights are guaranteed for everyone. The path will be long and strewn with pitfalls, but benevolent consultation can pave the way for better days for Sudan.