Red Cross Expands Emergency Aid in El Obeid as Conflict Threatens Civilian Lives

EL OBEID, July 3, 2026 - The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has increased humanitarian assistance in El Obeid and surrounding areas of North Kordofan as rising tensions and the threat of a major offensive place hundreds of thousands of civilians at risk. Humanitarian teams have provided assistance to approximately 42,000 people, including displaced families and vulnerable communities affected by the ongoing conflict. The support includes food distributions, emergency healthcare assistance, and nutritional programs aimed at preventing further deterioration among the most vulnerable groups. El Obeid is currently hosting around 105,000 internally displaced people, including tens of thousands living in overcrowded displacement camps. Aid organizations warn that many families are reaching the limits of their ability to cope due to unemployment, rising living costs, and limited humanitarian funding. Food assistance has been delivered to displaced households and vulnerable residents, while nutritional supplements are being provided to thousands of children, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers facing increased risks of malnutrition. The humanitarian situation has worsened as continued fighting disrupts essential services. Residents have faced months of displacement, uncertainty, electricity interruptions, and growing difficulties accessing basic needs. The city has become a major focus of concern as the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) continue to increase military pressure around El Obeid, with reports of attacks affecting power facilities and fuel infrastructure. A possible escalation of fighting threatens not only the city's population but also surrounding communities, given El Obeid’s strategic role as a major commercial and transport hub connecting central Sudan with Kordofan and western Darfur. To prepare for potential casualties, emergency medical teams have strengthened healthcare capacity in cooperation with local partners. Hundreds of people suffering weapon-related injuries have received treatment at El Obeid Teaching Hospital since the beginning of the year, placing additional pressure on medical facilities. Humanitarian organizations have delivered surgical supplies, emergency medical equipment, and disease-control materials to support hospitals and respond to potential outbreaks, including waterborne diseases. Efforts are also underway to improve access to clean water through the rehabilitation of existing wells and the construction of new water points benefiting thousands of displaced families. Humanitarian officials have called on all parties to the conflict to protect civilians and avoid targeting essential infrastructure, including hospitals, water systems, and electricity networks, warning that damage to these services could significantly increase civilian suffering.