Berlin: UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday marked three years since the war in Sudan began, warning of catastrophic humanitarian conditions at an international conference in Berlin. "Today marks three years since the war in Sudan began," Guterres said in a video message to the International Humanitarian Conference for Sudan, calling it "a tragic milestone in a conflict that has shattered a country of immense promise, and created the world's largest humanitarian crisis."

According to Anadolu Agency, Guterres highlighted the dire situation by stating that "nearly 34 million people inside Sudan now need humanitarian assistance," with "more than 4.5 million" having been forced to flee across borders. He warned that "famine has taken hold in what was once a breadbasket for the region," adding that "an entire generation of children has been robbed of education."

Guterres further noted the severe impact on women and girls, saying that "systematic sexual violence has prevailed." He also pointed out significant funding gaps, revealing that "less than 40% of the humanitarian support required was delivered" last year, leading to "devastating cuts to food aid, medical services, and critical support for survivors of sexual violence."

He emphasized that "despite growing needs, this year's response is falling even further short," and urged international partners to enhance their assistance. Guterres stressed that "funding alone cannot substitute for peace," calling for "an immediate cessation of hostilities" and an end to "external interference and the flow of arms that fuel this war."

The Secretary-General also urged for "a credible path" toward "an inclusive, civilian-led political process that reflects the aspirations of the Sudanese people."

Meanwhile, Sudan's Foreign Ministry criticized the conference in Germany for being held without consulting Khartoum, describing it as a "colonial tutelage approach" by which Western countries attempt to enforce their agenda. Sudan has been engulfed in conflict since April 2023, with clashes between the army and the RSF over military integration, resulting in tens of thousands of deaths, the displacement of approximately 13 million people, and pushing parts of the country toward famine, representing one of the world's worst humanitarian crises.