Starvation as a Weapon in Sudan’s Civil War: A Humanitarian Crisis Amidst Political Conflict

Sudan‘s Civil War: A Deliberate Starvation Crisis Unfolds

As the world focuses on the conflict in Gaza, a parallel humanitarian catastrophe is escalating in Sudan. For nearly three years, a brutal civil war has raged, with both the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) reportedly employing tactics that deliberately deprive civilians of essential resources, pushing the nation towards a manufactured famine.

The Tactics of Deprivation

Reports from across Sudan – including the regions of El Fasher, Khartoum, and Kordofan – indicate a systematic pattern of obstruction. Markets are being shut down,supply routes are intentionally blocked,and desperately needed aid is looted openly. Niama Al-Haj,a displaced physician in El Fasher,North Darfur,paints a grim picture: “We are feeding our children animal feed,and even that is running out. there’s no food, no medicine and no escape. They are starving us deliberately, one day at a time.”

The conflict,which began in April 2023,has already displaced over 13 million people. The limited relief efforts are largely being conducted by local Emergency Response Rooms (ERRs)-grassroots organizations providing food, shelter, and medical care. However, these vital lifelines are increasingly hampered by bureaucratic hurdles and subjected to violence.

roots of the Conflict

The current crisis stems from tensions dating back to 2019, when months of protests led to the ousting of long-time President Omar al-Bashir. The Sudanese people demanded a transition to civilian rule, accountability for past abuses, and solutions to widespread poverty and inequality. While a fragile power-sharing agreement was established, it was shattered in October 2021 when the military, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, seized power in a coup. The subsequent power struggle between the SAF and RSF, former allies in the coup, ignited the current conflict.

Systematic Obstruction of Aid

The conflict is characterized by a ruthless battle for control, with both sides using violence, airstrikes, and blockades – including obstructing food and humanitarian assistance – as key strategies. Within months of the war’s outset,aid workers became targets. Between April and August 2023, 19 aid workers were killed, and warehouses were systematically looted-with the U.N. reporting widespread looting by May.

The situation has deteriorated to the point were even those with financial resources struggle to access food. Malnutrition is rampant,especially among children,and healthcare services have largely collapsed. According to reports, the city of El Fasher, under SAF control, is under siege by the RSF, with key supply routes severed. “the situation is catastrophic,and even basic medications are forbidden,” Al-Haj stated. “we’ve faced arrests and gunfire while trying to deliver supplies. this is a deliberate strangulation of the city.”

Recent accusations allege the RSF of looting a U.N. World food Program aid convoy in North darfur in July, just days after it was shelled near Al-Kuma on its way to El Fasher. Five WFP staff members were killed in the attack.

the Stark Reality: Sudan’s Hunger Crisis in Numbers

Indicator	Estimate (as of August 2025)
People Displaced	Over 13 Million
People Facing Acute Hunger	24.6 Million
People Facing Famine or at Risk of Famine	2 Million
Aid Workers Killed (April – August 2023)	19

Attacks on Grassroots Aid Networks

Sudanese humanitarian volunteers, who have been crucial in providing assistance, are now facing increased attacks and bureaucratic interference. In May,the khartoum city government moved to place ERRs under the control of the Humanitarian Aid Commission (HAC),an organization with ties to Islamist networks,effectively criminalizing autonomous groups. Muzan Ali, an ERR volunteer in Khartoum, explained that this move stemmed from a fear that independent groups might challenge government authority and promote community empowerment.

According to reports, ERR volunteers have faced arrests and intimidation simply for attempting to deliver aid. The disruption of aid efforts is compounded by ongoing attacks on infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and hospitals, and the looting of agricultural resources.

“By targeting health care infrastructure and obstructing humanitarian aid, the RSF is not just violating international law; it is waging a calculated campaign of deprivation against the Sudanese people,” said Khalid Abdallah, a humanitarian volunteer.

Understanding Food as a Weapon of War

Throughout history,the deliberate denial of food has been a tactic of war. Historically, sieges often involved cutting off food supplies to force surrender. modern examples include the use of food denial as a tactic during conflicts in Yemen and Syria. The intentional obstruction of aid is a violation of international humanitarian law, as outlined in the Geneva Conventions.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Sudan Crisis

What is causing the famine-like conditions in Sudan?

The crisis is a direct result of the ongoing civil war, with both the RSF and SAF deliberately obstructing aid delivery, attacking infrastructure, and disrupting agricultural production.

How many people are affected by hunger in Sudan?

An estimated 24.6 million people in Sudan are facing acute hunger, with 2 million at risk of famine.

What are Emergency Response Rooms (ERRs)?

ERRs are grassroots, volunteer-led organizations providing crucial aid, including food, shelter, and medical care, to communities affected by the conflict.

Is the international community responding adequately to the crisis?

Despite warnings from aid organizations, the international response has been limited, and the situation continues to deteriorate.

What are the long-term consequences of this crisis?

Beyond the immediate humanitarian impact, the disruption of food systems and infrastructure will have lasting consequences for Sudan’s stability and development.

What do you think the international community should do to help alleviate the suffering in Sudan? Do you believe the deliberate targeting of aid workers constitutes a war crime?

What legal mechanisms exist to hold perpetrators accountable for using starvation as a weapon of war in Sudan?

The Deliberate Weaponization of Food Insecurity

The ongoing civil war in Sudan, erupting in April 2023, has tragically evolved beyond a political power struggle into a deliberate campaign of starvation. While conflict inherently disrupts food systems, mounting evidence suggests a systematic effort to deny civilians access to essential resources, effectively weaponizing hunger. This isn’t simply a byproduct of war; it’s a calculated tactic with devastating consequences. The situation is particularly dire given Sudan’s existing vulnerabilities – economic instability, climate change impacts, and pre-existing food insecurity. According to Länderdaten.info, Sudan already faced notable demographic and economic challenges prior to the conflict, exacerbating the current crisis.

Understanding the Roots of the Crisis: Conflict & climate

The conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has directly impacted agricultural production and supply chains.

Disrupted Farming Seasons: Fighting has prevented farmers from planting and harvesting crops, particularly in key agricultural regions like Al Gezira state, known as Sudan’s breadbasket.

Looting and Destruction: Reports consistently detail the looting of food stocks, markets, and humanitarian warehouses by both sides of the conflict. Infrastructure crucial for food transportation – roads, bridges, and railways – have been deliberately targeted.

Displacement & Migration: Millions have been internally displaced or have fled to neighboring countries like Chad and South Sudan, creating immense strain on already limited resources. This mass migration disrupts livelihoods and increases competition for food.

Climate Change impacts: Sudan is highly vulnerable to climate change, experiencing frequent droughts and floods. These extreme weather events have already weakened food security, making the population more susceptible to famine.

Tactics of Denial: How Starvation is Being Used

The deliberate obstruction of humanitarian aid is a central component of this strategy.

1. bureaucratic Impediments: The SAF and RSF have repeatedly imposed restrictions on the movement of humanitarian convoys, demanding access fees, and delaying approvals for aid deliveries.
2. Targeting of Humanitarian Workers: Aid workers have faced harassment,intimidation,and even attacks,hindering their ability to reach those in need. Several organizations have temporarily suspended operations due to security concerns.
3. Control of Key Infrastructure: Control over vital infrastructure, like the Port Sudan, the main entry point for humanitarian aid, is being used to exert pressure and control the flow of assistance.
4. Deliberate Targeting of Food Production Areas: attacks on agricultural lands and infrastructure are designed to cripple future harvests and exacerbate long-term food insecurity.

The Scale of the Humanitarian Disaster: Numbers & Needs

The numbers paint a grim picture.as of late august 2025:

Acute Food Insecurity: Over 20 million people – more than 40% of the population – are facing acute food insecurity (IPC Phase 3 or above).

Malnutrition Rates: Malnutrition rates, particularly among children under five and pregnant/lactating women, are soaring. Severe acute malnutrition is reaching emergency levels in several states.

Famine Risk: Several regions, including Darfur, are at high risk of famine, with conditions expected to worsen in the coming months.

Displacement Crisis: Over 8 million people have been displaced, creating a massive humanitarian challenge.

Regional Impacts & Spillover Effects

The crisis in Sudan is not contained within it’s borders. The influx of refugees is straining resources in neighboring countries, particularly Chad, South Sudan, and Egypt. This regional instability has the potential to further destabilize an already volatile region. The disruption of trade routes also impacts regional food security.

International Response & Challenges

The international community has pledged humanitarian assistance, but delivering aid remains a significant challenge.

Funding Gaps: despite pledges, funding shortfalls are hindering the scale-up of humanitarian operations.

Access Constraints: Gaining access to conflict-affected areas remains the biggest obstacle.

Political Obstacles: The lack of a unified political approach and the ongoing conflict between the SAF and RSF complicate efforts to address the root causes of the crisis.

Accountability Concerns: There is a growing call for accountability for those responsible for obstructing humanitarian aid and using starvation as a weapon of war.

The Legal Framework: war Crimes & Crimes Against Humanity

Deliberately depriving civilians of food and water is a violation of international humanitarian law and can constitute a war crime or a crime against humanity. the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court defines such acts as attacks directed against the civilian population. Investigating and prosecuting those responsible for these atrocities is crucial to deter future violations and ensure justice for the victims.

case Study: The Situation in Darfur

The Darfur region, already scarred by decades of conflict, is experiencing a particularly severe humanitarian crisis. The RSF has been accused of systematically targeting non-Arab communities, blocking access to aid, and deliberately destroying food supplies. Reports from the ground indicate widespread sexual violence and ethnic cleansing, further exacerbating the suffering of the population. The situation in Darfur serves as a stark example of how starvation is being used as a weapon of war.

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