Growing Threat of Landmines in Sudan Amid Ongoing Conflict
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(Arab Times) In Nouakchott, Mauritania, a bus carrying Sudanese civilians struck a landmine on January 20 in Al-Jazirah state, south of Khartoum, a region marred by military conflict since April. The Sudanese Armed Forces and Rapid Support Forces, the conflicting factions, remained silent. The incident, possibly the first of its kind in this conflict, hints at a growing threat: the use of antipersonnel landmines, endangering civilians.
The UN Mine Action Service (UNMAS) hasn't confirmed the explosive type, but social media suggests a rising trend. Sudan, heavily impacted by landmines, struggles to clear contaminated areas, now including urban zones. South Sudan faces similar challenges. Ongoing conflicts complicate humanitarian aid, stressing hospitals. This mirrors issues in Lebanon, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Gaza, highlighting a universal struggle against landmines. Without a lasting ceasefire, Sudan faces further contamination, hindering recovery.