United Kingdom's Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Sunday said they have evacuated diplomatic staff and their families from Sudan's capital Khartoum through a military operation amid clashes between Sudan army and paramilitary forces.
Sunak, in a statement, said it was a complex operation and appreciated the commitment of diplomats and the bravery of the military personnel who carried out this “difficult operation.” In a tweet, Sunak said, “We are continuing to pursue every avenue to end the bloodshed in Sudan and ensure the safety of British nationals remaining in the country. I urge the parties to lay down their arms and implement an immediate humanitarian ceasefire to ensure civilians can leave conflict zones.”
UK Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said the military operation involved over 1,200 personnel. “This morning, UK Armed Forces undertook a military operation alongside the US, France and other allies. They have evacuated British Embassy staff and their dependants from Khartoum due to the escalating threats,” Wallace tweeted. He added, “The operation involved more than 1,200 British personnel from 16 Air Assault Brigade, the Royal Marines and the RAF. I am grateful to all our partners including Cyprus. I want to pay tribute to the bravery and professionalism of our armed forces.”
Britain's foreign office advised citizens to shelter in place and contact the foreign office to register their location and contact details.
Fighting rages on in the African nation, leaving hundreds dead and thousands wounded as people continue to struggle for food amid power and water shortage.
Despite the three-day ceasefire, fighting continued in the country between the RSF and the military. Both sides accused the other of not respecting the truce. "I don’t have a problem with the ceasefire," Hemedti told Al Arabiya TV late on Saturday. "They (the army) did not respect it. If they respect it, so will we."
