In a stunning display of the universe's commitment to irony, the ongoing conflict in Sudan has managed to deepen needs and fuel further displacement, according to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA). Because nothing says 'we're handling it' like a funding shortage in the middle of a humanitarian crisis.

The situation around El Obeid, the capital of North Kordofan state, is particularly dire. Insecurity continues to endanger civilians and drive displacement, with people flocking to the city and surrounding areas in search of safety and assistance. The rebel RSF militia have effectively encircled the town and are threatening a full-scale ground assault, because why not add 'siege' to the list of woes?

Despite the challenging environment - and by 'challenging,' we mean 'actively hostile' - the UN and partners are reaching people in El Obeid. They have provided two million litres of drinking water to about 133,000 people amid severe water shortages. Because when you're surrounded by armed militia, the least you deserve is a drink of water.

Meanwhile, the UN migration agency IOM reported that fighting in Sirba locality, West Darfur state, has displaced roughly 18,000 people from more than 20 villages since last week. Most have reportedly fled across the border into Chad, because nothing says 'safe haven' like a refugee camp in a neighboring country.

The war in Sudan shows no signs of stopping as the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and former allies the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) remain locked in a brutal battle for power. The war erupted in April 2023, creating one of the world's worst humanitarian crises. More than 30 million people need humanitarian assistance, and more than nine million people are displaced within the country. Those are the kind of numbers that make you want to throw up your hands and ask, 'Really?'

OCHA once again called on all parties to protect civilians and to facilitate rapid, safe, unhindered, and sustained humanitarian access. Because apparently, 'please don't shoot at aid workers' needs to be repeated.

At the same time, funding gaps are limiting the assistance available to people in need. Funding shortfalls forced the recent closure of three health facilities in Central Darfur state, leaving some 75,000 displaced people without adequate access to essential health services. Because when you're displaced, the one thing you really don't need is a lack of healthcare.

OCHA continues to urge donors to provide additional support for the humanitarian response in Sudan. A nearly $3 billion appeal to meet needs this year is just over 40 per cent funded, with $1.2 billion received to date. So if you were thinking of donating, now's the time. Or, you know, whenever.

As the war grinds on - and 'grinds' is the operative word - the UN remains committed to achieving de-escalation. The Secretary-General's Personal Envoy for Sudan, Pekka Haavisto, continues to engage the parties. He 'has been able to have meetings with both of the sides, and is trying to work with them,' UN Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq told journalists in New York. Because 'trying' is the best we can do these days.

The Envoy also continues to work with UN partners, including the African Union, the League of Arab States, and the East African bloc IGAD 'to actually get a full cessation of hostilities and progress in negotiations between the parties.' We'll believe it when we see it, but hey, at least they're trying.