GENEVA, 16 October 2026 — The United Nations has renewed its call for urgent diplomatic action in Sudan, warning that intensifying fighting is driving widespread civilian suffering and increasing the risk of regional spillover.
Under-Secretary-General Rosemary DiCarlo told the Security Council that attacks on civilians and humanitarian operations must stop. She urged the parties to cease the use of drones in the conflict and called on outside actors to help end the war rather than fuel it.
UN officials said diplomatic efforts are continuing through the Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy for Sudan, Pekka Haavisto. Current confidence-building work includes discussions around prisoner exchanges, access to education and steps that could help create conditions for a humanitarian truce.
The United Nations stressed that humanitarian relief alone cannot resolve the crisis. A durable response requires a political process that is inclusive, civilian-led and supported by credible commitments from the parties to negotiate.
DiCarlo urged the Security Council to use the tools available to it to press for de-escalation and a path toward peace. The appeal comes amid concern that continued violence could deepen displacement, obstruct relief operations and further destabilise neighbouring areas.
The UN’s message was that international engagement should be coordinated around reducing violence and supporting a political settlement, not widening the conflict. Protecting civilians and allowing humanitarian organisations to reach people in need remain immediate priorities.
Image note: Featured image is illustrative and does not depict a verified scene from the latest briefing.