Statement by Minister of International Development Åsmund Aukrust on mass displacement from the Zamzam IDP camp

'Hostilities during recent weeks have forced more than 400 000 people to flee yet again, and at least 500 people are reported killed, including children and humanitarian workers. The real number is likely to be far higher. As the UN High Commissioner puts it: The horror unfolding in Sudan knows no bounds.'

'Since famine was confirmed in July last year, Norway has repeatedly called for humanitarian access to Zamzam, where people have struggled to survive with next to no help.'

'While the majority of the population have been forced to leave, an estimated 100 000 civilians are still trapped inside Zamzam. Both those left in Zamzam and the many who have fled to places such as Tawila, are in urgent need of assistance. They lack food, medical help, shelter, clean drinking water and protection.'

'We urge the RSF and all armed groups in North Darfur to protect civilians and to ensure that humanitarian assistance can reach those who need it. It is a clear obligation under International humanitarian law for all warring parties to facilitate rapid and unimpeded passage of humanitarian relief to civilians.'