Brief World News: Aid to Darfur Hindered by Violence, New Law in Iraq, Appeal for Chad Elections

The situation in El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur state, has reached a critical point as more than 300,000 people are in dire need of food assistance. The World Food Programme (WFP) has been working tirelessly to support the vulnerable population, with 40,000 individuals in El Fasher alone receiving vital food supplies in the past month.

Executive Director Cindy McCain emphasized the importance of reaching those most in need in Sudan, highlighting the urgency of the situation. Meanwhile, UN Humanitarian Affairs Coordinator Martin Griffiths issued a stark warning, stating that an escalation of hostilities in the region would have catastrophic consequences for the already struggling civilians in El Fasher.

The UN Security Council has called for an immediate halt to military build-up in the area, amidst reports of an impending offensive by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and their allied militia. This looming threat puts the lives of hundreds of thousands of displaced persons at risk, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the region.

In other news, the UN human rights office has condemned Iraq’s new law criminalizing same-sex relations, urging the country to discard the discriminatory legislation. The law imposes heavy jail sentences on individuals engaging in consensual same-sex relationships, promoting homosexuality, or accessing gender-affirming medical treatments.

As Chad prepares for its presidential election next week, UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for restraint and a peaceful electoral process. The elections mark a crucial step in the country’s transition back to democracy following the death of President Idris Deby last year. The UN remains committed to supporting Chad in its journey towards a peaceful and prosperous future.