The consequences of neglecting Sudan will be felt far beyond its borders

The World Food Programme (WFP) has reported that 20 million civilians in Sudan are facing severe hunger due to a three-year civil war. Five million are at emergency levels and 200,000 are experiencing catastrophic food shortages. The WFP is struggling to continue its operations due to funding shortages. In El Fasher, only 20,000 residents receive food assistance, while in Tawila, Darfur, about 950,000 people receive food each month, but only half-rations.

The world's focus on multiple crises is causing Sudan's humanitarian response to falter. This neglect will have consequences not only for Sudan's people but also for its neighbors and beyond. Mass displacement from Sudan is causing migration to the Mediterranean, the Gulf, and to neighboring countries like Chad, South Sudan, and Ethiopia.

Violent instability along the Red Sea coast is threatening shipping lanes. Poor harvests, exacerbated by drought, fighting, and rising fuel and fertilizer prices, will affect more than just Sudan. The UAE has provided $800 million in aid to Sudan since the war began, and the US and the UAE have pushed for a nationwide arms embargo in the UN Security Council.

However, individual goodwill alone cannot solve this crisis. The world must not see providing life-saving operations in Sudan as optional. Responding to save Sudan's civilians would be an investment in regional stability. Sudan's crisis highlights the dangers of funding fatigue and geopolitical rivalries when it comes to determining who gets to eat.

The upcoming leadership transition in Sudan is crucial, with the US backing a civilian-led approach, rejecting the idea that the current warring generals have a future in leadership.