Already a subscriber? Make sure to log into your account before viewing this content. You can access your account by hitting the “login” button on the top right corner. Still unable to see the content after signing in? Make sure your card on file is up-to-date.

A humanitarian aid convoy has entered Darfur, Sudan, after Sudanese forces had previously closed parts of the border.

Let’s bring you up to speed: Back in February, Sudan blocked aid from Chad, fearing the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) might exploit humanitarian corridors to smuggle arms. The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), in conflict with the RSF, saw these routes as a security threat that could escalate fighting. This decision deepened the humanitarian crisis in Darfur, worsening hunger and malnutrition for over six million people.

What’s going on now: UN trucks carrying food assistance for 13,000 people have entered Sudan’s Darfur region following the Sudanese army’s decision to temporarily reopen the Adre border crossing with Chad for three months. This move comes amid growing international pressure and a worsening humanitarian crisis. Despite concerns that the route could be exploited for arms smuggling amid ongoing conflict, the dire need to prevent widespread starvation led to this limited resumption of aid.

UN statement: In a statement, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’ spokesman Stephane Dujarric said, “More than a dozen aid trucks – including some from the WFP and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) – have now crossed into Darfur from Chad via the Adre border crossing. WFP says their trucks were carrying sorghum, pulses, oil and rice that will benefit some 13,000 people who are at risk of famine in the Kereneik area of West Darfur. For its part, IOM says the essential relief items delivered to Sudan will support more than 12,000 people in need.”

Red Cross statement: The Red Cross said, “We welcome the Sudanese authorities’ decision to reopen the Adré crossing between Chad and Sudan for three months to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid into the Darfur region. Any initiative that can improve humanitarian access is an important and encouraging development. It is a positive first step, however, we remind all parties that the three months coincide with the rainy season, which naturally complicates access because of heavy rains and flash floods. And we urge the parties to keep the Adré crossing open to ensure the flow of aid.”

Digging Deeper: The conflict in Sudan between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has left millions vulnerable, causing widespread displacement and forcing families to flee with almost nothing. Food insecurity has worsened, especially in Darfur, where over six million people now face severe hunger. Essential services like healthcare, clean water, and education have been disrupted, and violence has hindered aid delivery, trapping millions in worsening deprivation. As the conflict continues, over 25 million people—half the population—urgently need assistance.