Deadly attack on Redcross humanitarian convoy in Khartoum

Two people have died and seven injured after a humanitarian convoy of the International Committee of the Redcross (ICRC) was attacked in Khartoum on Sunday, 10 December, 2023.

In a statement issued by the Red Cross (ICRC) it disclosed that the humanitarian convoy was attacked on route to Wad Madani to evacuate over 100 civilians and consisted of 3 ICRC vehicles all visibly marked with the Red Cross emblem.

“The humanitarian operation had been requested by and coordinated with parties to the conflict, who gave their agreement and provided the necessary security guarantees.”

Pierre Dorbes, Head of the ICRC delegation in Sudan has condemned the attack. “I am shocked by the total disrespect for the Red Cross emblem which must be respected and protected in accordance with international humanitarian law.”

“My heart goes out to the loved ones of the people killed, and we desperately hope those injured will make a full recovery” he added.

The ICRC reiterated its position as a neutral impartial humanitarian organization and implements its role of intermediary independently from the parties to the conflict.

The ICRC called for the immediate protection of all civilians, including humanitarian workers and medical personnel adding that civilians trapped in areas of fighting must be allowed safe passage from conflict zones which fighting parties must facilitate.

“The ICRC stands ready to continue such evacuations in Sudan, provided the parties to the conflict respect the Red Cross and Red Crescent emblems, which must never be targeted.”

Sudan’s army has acknowledged firing the humanitarian convoy of the ICRC near Khartoum.

According to Sudan’s army spokesperson Nabil Abdallah the ICRC convoy had deviated from the agreed-upon itinerary and was accompanied by a rebel vehicle armed with a 12.7mm machine gun crew, which approached their defensive positions.

The Al-Shajara military region in southern Khartoum, home to army bases, including the Armored Corps and ammunition factory, has been a battleground for fierce clashes between the two opposing forces for several months.