In a statement published on May 3, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) said that the already-difficult humanitarian situation in Sudan has been "further exacerbated by heavy and uninterrupted fighting for more than two weeks."

IOM Director General António Vitorino highlighted that "vulnerable people are unable to leave worst-hit areas, and millions are still trapped with soaring food and transportation prices, lack of cash and access to healthcare, supplies and critical services.

"With Sudan on the brink of humanitarian catastrophe, I reiterate UN calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities, so that we can reach those most affected," Vitorino pleaded.

'We won't abandon Sudan'

The IOM chief said that "over 334,053 people are estimated to have now been internally displaced, (with) 72% of that caseload displacement in West and South Darfur states.

"We cannot turn a blind eye to this crisis. It is imperative that we -- as UN agencies, donors, individuals, as well as governments -- collectively act and support the people of Sudan and neighbouring countries."

The statement further highlighted that the worsening situation has been marked by "increasing civilian deaths, destruction of health, water and communication facilities, shortage of supplies and poor conditions at overwhelmed border points as people flee the fighting."

He also commended "neighbouring countries for continuing to keep their borders open to those fleeing Sudan" while calling for "increased efforts to improve conditions at border points to facilitate movements and humanitarian relief operations".

Vitorino stressed: "We have not and will not abandon Sudan. IOM works as part of the core UN team in Port Sudan and has set up a crisis response team in Nairobi, with readiness to deploy into Sudan as soon as possible."