Pope Leo XIV on Sunday voiced deep concern over the worsening humanitarian situation in Sudan, with particular emphasis on the deteriorating conditions in El Obeid, the capital of North Kordofan. He called for the establishment of humanitarian corridors to protect civilians and urged the international community to intensify efforts toward an immediate ceasefire.
Speaking after the Angelus prayer in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican, the pope said he was following developments in Sudan with “concern,” particularly in El Obeid, and expressed his solidarity with the Sudanese people.
The pontiff renewed his appeal for humanitarian access to civilians and urged international actors to support initiatives aimed at securing an immediate cessation of hostilities.
He also called for prayers for those affected by the conflict, urging an end to violence and a path toward lasting peace.
El Obeid at the center of the crisis
The pope’s specific reference to El Obeid comes as the city and large parts of the Kordofan region face escalating military confrontations, raising fears over the safety of hundreds of thousands of civilians already struggling with shortages of food, water and essential services.
The World Food Programme warned in July of a worsening hunger and displacement crisis in El Obeid, noting that the city is hosting hundreds of thousands of displaced people, placing enormous pressure on its already strained resources and infrastructure.
The United Nations has also warned of intensifying fighting in and around the city, urging all parties to protect civilians and ensure that humanitarian aid can reach those in need rapidly, safely and without obstruction.
According to UNICEF, North Kordofan has witnessed a rise in child casualties since May as a result of drone attacks and other violence. Homes, schools, healthcare facilities, water networks and markets have also reportedly suffered damage, further worsening conditions for civilians.
Growing international calls to end the war
The pope’s appeal comes amid mounting international pressure to halt the fighting and prevent El Obeid from becoming another major flashpoint in Sudan’s devastating conflict.
The United Nations secretary-general has repeatedly urged the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces to engage in international efforts to de-escalate the conflict and reach a negotiated settlement.
The latest warning comes as Sudan’s war, which began in April 2023, continues to fuel mass displacement, food insecurity and the collapse of essential services across large parts of the country.
UNICEF estimates that around 33.7 million people in Sudan will require humanitarian assistance in 2026, nearly half of them children, making the country one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises.
Pope Leo XIV’s intervention puts renewed international focus on Sudan, particularly El Obeid, where fears are growing that further expansion of the fighting could trigger another major humanitarian disaster as the conflict enters its fourth year with no clear end in sight.
