Lawrence Korbandi in an exclusive interview with Zoom Africa News: The humanitarian situation in Sudan is alarming... and we are working to defuse the crisis.

Lawrence Korbandi, IGAD's special envoy, stressed For SudanHe noted that the humanitarian situation in Sudan is alarming, with the humanitarian catastrophe worsening due to the ongoing war, stressing that a ceasefire is of paramount importance to create the right climate for a political process.

In an interview with Zoom Africa News, he said, ”IGAD is now part of the five-party mechanism that was recently formed to defuse the crisis and play a facilitating role in resolving the conflict,” stressing that Continuation of the war This means further collapse on all levels.

The war in Sudan

And now to the text of the dialogue

How do you view the humanitarian situation in Sudan?

The humanitarian situation in Sudan is alarming, with the humanitarian catastrophe increasing due to the continuation of the war. International reports indicate a severe shortage of food and medicine, with continued internal displacement, especially in the Blue Nile region and parts of Kordofan. In addition, the collapse of infrastructure and drone attacks by the parties on civilian areas continue. There are also violations that have resulted in civilian casualties. This situation requires urgent international humanitarian intervention.

What is the importance of de-escalation and a ceasefire?

A ceasefire is of paramount importance in creating the climate for a political process and, of course, the humanitarian intervention that civilians need. We have repeatedly called for a halt to all forms of escalation between the parties to ensure the start of a political dialogue on the crisis, because we believe that there is no military solution to the Sudanese dilemma.

Are there any IGAD initiatives working on to achieve a ceasefire?

IGAD is now working within the recently formed five-party mechanism with the participation of international and regional organizations such as the European Union, the African Union, the United Nations and the League of Arab States. These institutions are working together to defuse the crisis and play a facilitating role in resolving the conflict. Many meetings have been held with Sudanese parties and components to learn their views on the political process leading to a comprehensive solution.

What are the repercussions of the continued war on the Sudanese people?

Continuing the war means further collapse at all levels, especially in the humanitarian framework, and the fragmentation of Sudan, which of course casts a negative shadow on the entire region and continent, and the continued flow of refugees to neighboring countries, as well as the complete collapse of the Sudanese state.