Sudan’s Peace Government has called for the immediate implementation of an unconditional humanitarian ceasefire, saying it is the most effective way to protect civilians caught in the conflict in El Obeid.

In a statement made available to The Guardian, the Council of Ministers of the Peace Government said an immediate cessation of hostilities would help alleviate the humanitarian crisis facing residents of the city.

“The most effective and fundamental means of protecting civilians and ending their suffering is the immediate implementation of an unconditional humanitarian ceasefire,” the statement said.

According to the council, a ceasefire would facilitate the protection of civilians, enable humanitarian organisations to deliver urgently needed relief supplies and allow for the evacuation of wounded and sick residents.

The government also appealed to the international community to intensify diplomatic efforts aimed at securing an immediate cessation of hostilities.

It called for “stronger and more effective measures” to pressure what it described as the Muslim Brotherhood and its allied military forces to accept a humanitarian ceasefire.

The statement was signed by Khalid Danaa, Minister of Information and Official Spokesperson of the Peace Government.

The latest appeal comes amid continuing concern over the humanitarian situation in El Obeid, where ongoing fighting has disrupted access to essential services and humanitarian assistance.

The claims contained in the statement could not be independently verified, and there was no immediate response from the Sudanese authorities regarding the ceasefire call.