UNITED NATIONS, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- The UN Security Council on Wednesday rejected the announcement of the establishment of a parallel governing authority in areas controlled by Sudan's Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

In a press statement, the council members also expressed grave concern about the implications of such actions, which represent a direct threat to Sudan's territorial integrity and unity and further risk exacerbating the ongoing conflict in Sudan, fragmenting the country and worsening an already dire humanitarian situation.

They unequivocally reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to Sudan's sovereignty, independence, unity, and territorial integrity. They stressed that any unilateral steps that undermine these principles threaten not only the future of Sudan but also the peace and stability of the broader region.

They reiterated that the priority is for the parties to resume talks to reach a lasting ceasefire and "create the necessary conditions for a political resolution on the conflict."

They also recalled Security Council Resolution 2736, which demands that the RSF lift the siege of El Fasher and calls for an immediate halt to the fighting and for de-escalation in and around the city. They also expressed grave concern about incoming reports of a renewed RSF offensive in El Fasher and urged the RSF to allow unhindered humanitarian access to the city.

The council members condemned reported attacks in the Kordofan region in recent weeks by the parties, which have caused the deaths of large numbers of civilians. They also expressed deep concern over the impact of the conflict, including attacks on humanitarian operations. They called on the parties in Sudan to allow and facilitate safe and unhindered humanitarian access in a manner consistent with the relevant provisions of international law.

They urged all UN member states to refrain from external interference that seeks to foment conflict and instability, to support efforts for durable peace, to abide by their obligations under international law, and to implement relevant Security Council resolutions. ■