Thank you, Madam President. Thank you, UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell and Medecins Sans Frontieres Secretary General Christopher Lockyear, for your briefings on the horrifying developments in Sudan.
The United States has expressed strong condemnation of the widespread conflict-related sexual violence in Sudan, reportedly committed by the RSF and allied militias. The violence includes acts such as rape and gang rape against women and children, some as young as one year old.
These brutal acts have been particularly prevalent in Darfur, according to reports from the 1591 Committee’s Panel of Experts. The U.S. acknowledges the importance of the Panel's reporting on these issues.
The crimes described during today's briefing have occurred throughout Sudan. In less than two years, those at risk of conflict-related sexual violence have increased to an estimated 12.1 million people, or 25 percent of Sudan's population. The perpetrators must be held accountable.
It was noted that while women and girls are primarily targeted, men and boys are also victims, including hundreds of children. This situation must end immediately.
The U.S. supports recommendations to hold accountable those who commit such acts and violate the arms embargo. The Panel’s recent report details frequent weapon transfers into Darfur from neighboring territories.
Concerns were shared about ongoing hostilities blocking humanitarian aid routes into parts of Darfur.
The United States urges Sudan’s warring parties to cease hostilities immediately, allow unhindered humanitarian access, and protect civilians. It has communicated its interest in restoring peace and ending the conflict to both sides involved.
A Security Council press statement condemning RSF’s efforts to establish a parallel government was welcomed by the U.S., but it stressed that further pressure is needed from all member states to end the violence.
Madam President also addressed humanitarian assistance aligned with President Trump’s Executive Order on Reevaluating Foreign Aid. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is reviewing foreign assistance programs for alignment with U.S policy but approved a waiver for lifesaving aid including food, medicine, shelter for Sudan.
Lastly, support continues for Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy Lamamra's efforts toward a sustainable resolution through dialogue with involved parties.
I thank you.