Pope Leo XIV has called for the opening of humanitarian corridors to allow civilians trapped by the ongoing war in Sudan to access safety and essential assistance.
The Pope made the appeal on Sunday after leading the Angelus prayer at the Vatican, expressing concern over the worsening humanitarian situation in the country, particularly in El-Obeid, the largest city in the southern Kordofan region.
El-Obeid has come under intense drone attacks in recent weeks, prompting the United Nations to issue a “red alert” over what it described as an unfolding catastrophe.
Expressing solidarity with those affected by the conflict, Leo urged Sudanese authorities to guarantee humanitarian corridors for civilians caught in areas of fighting.
He also called on the international community to intensify efforts towards securing an immediate ceasefire and ending the violence.
The Pope said he was praying for those suffering in the conflict and appealed for an end to the violence that has continued to devastate communities across Sudan.
The war between Sudan’s regular army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces erupted in April 2023.
The conflict has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths, widespread destruction and the displacement of millions of people.
The United Nations has described the crisis as the world’s largest displacement and hunger crisis, with civilians facing severe shortages of food and other essential supplies.
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