United Nations: Middle East Situation Increases Transportation Costs for Aid Supplies to Sudan.

Fletcher, the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations in charge of humanitarian affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, stated on April 15th local time that the tension in the Middle East is exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in Sudan, causing a 25% increase in the transportation cost of aid materials to Sudan. Fletcher pointed out that the tense situation in the region has also pushed up food and fuel prices domestically in Sudan. In addition, about half of the fertilizers needed for agriculture in Sudan rely on supplies from the Gulf region, and as the main planting season approaches in April and May, the supply and demand for fertilizers are becoming tighter. Fletcher also stated that the United Nations and its partners are seeking $2.2 billion in funding to provide assistance to approximately 14 million people within Sudan this year. He also pointed out that since the outbreak of armed conflicts in Sudan, 130 humanitarian workers have already died in Sudan.