Pope calls for Sudan ceasefire and aid access as conflict deepens
John Ashworth
August 10, 2026 (VATICAN CITY) – Pope Leo XIV on Sunday called on authorities in Sudan to guarantee safe humanitarian corridors for civilians and urged the international community to back an immediate ceasefire as fighting spreads.
Speaking to pilgrims gathered in Saint Peter’s Square following the Angelus prayer, the pontiff highlighted the growing toll of the civil war, specifically citing deteriorating conditions in El-Obeid, the capital of North Kordofan.
“I continue to follow with concern the tragic situation in Sudan, especially in the city of El-Obeid,” Pope Leo said. “In expressing my spiritual closeness to all the people of the nation, I renew my appeal to those in authority to guarantee humanitarian corridors for the civilian population.”
He urged global powers to support diplomatic efforts aimed at securing an immediate end to the fighting, praying for peace and for those suffering in the conflict.
The appeal comes as Sudan’s war between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) enters its fourth year after erupting in April 2023.
An estimated 19.5 million people face acute food insecurity across the country. Famine conditions have been confirmed in El Fasher in North Darfur and Kadugli in South Kordofan, while several other regions remain at risk due to blockades and ongoing hostilities.
The conflict has created the world’s largest displacement crisis, forcing more than 14 million people from their homes. Around 9 million remain internally displaced within Sudan, while more than 4 million have fled to neighbouring countries.
https://sudantribune.com/article/317211
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John Ashworth
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