UN warns El Ubayd could spark large-scale conflict in Sudan as US imposes sanctions

The United Nations warned that the fighting in Sudan’s El Ubayd town could expand into a full‑scale war, threatening hundreds of thousands of civilians. UN officials said the intensifying clashes between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces, including increased use of unmanned aerial vehicles, risk a massive humanitarian disaster and a new wave of displacement.

In response, the United States announced sanctions targeting eight individuals and entities linked to the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces over allegations of chemical weapons use and violations of international obligations. Washington said the sanctions aim to curb the flow of weapons and drones that are intensifying the conflict.