The International Rescue Committee (IRC) has included Sudan and Palestine on its 2026 Emergency Watchlist, highlighting the escalating humanitarian crises in these regions. The annual report, which identifies countries at risk of severe humanitarian emergencies, underscores the complex interplay of geopolitical rivalries, shifting alliances, and transactional deals that exacerbate the vulnerabilities of affected populations.
Sudan has been embroiled in conflict since the ousting of former President Omar al-Bashir in 2019, which led to a power struggle between military and civilian factions. The situation deteriorated significantly in April 2023 when violent clashes erupted between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group. The fighting has resulted in thousands of deaths and displaced millions, with the United Nations estimating that over 5 million people have fled their homes since the conflict began. The humanitarian situation is dire, with access to food, water, and medical care severely restricted.
The IRC’s report highlights that more than 25 million people in Sudan, approximately half of the population, are in need of humanitarian assistance. The ongoing violence has disrupted agricultural activities, leading to food shortages and skyrocketing prices. The World Food Programme has warned that millions are facing acute hunger, with children being particularly vulnerable to malnutrition. The IRC’s inclusion of Sudan on the watchlist serves as a call to action for the international community to address the urgent needs of the population and to seek a resolution to the conflict.
In Palestine, the situation remains precarious, particularly in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. The ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict has resulted in a protracted humanitarian crisis, exacerbated by periodic escalations of violence. The most recent conflict in May 2021 saw significant casualties and destruction, further straining the already fragile infrastructure in Gaza. The IRC’s report notes that over 2 million people in Gaza are in need of humanitarian assistance, with many lacking access to clean water, electricity, and healthcare.
The political landscape in Palestine is also marked by internal divisions, primarily between the two major factions, Fatah and Hamas. These divisions complicate efforts to deliver aid and implement effective governance. The IRC emphasizes that the humanitarian needs in Palestine are compounded by restrictions on movement and access, as well as the impact of ongoing settlement expansion in the West Bank. The report calls for renewed international attention to the humanitarian situation and urges stakeholders to prioritize the needs of vulnerable populations.
The IRC’s 2026 Emergency Watchlist is significant as it serves as a barometer for global humanitarian crises, drawing attention to regions that require urgent assistance. The report is based on a comprehensive analysis of factors such as conflict intensity, displacement, food insecurity, and access to essential services. By highlighting Sudan and Palestine, the IRC aims to mobilize resources and advocacy efforts to address the pressing needs of affected communities.
The implications of the watchlist extend beyond immediate humanitarian concerns. The inclusion of Sudan and Palestine underscores the interconnectedness of global crises and the need for coordinated international responses. As geopolitical rivalries shape the landscape of humanitarian aid, the IRC’s report serves as a reminder of the importance of multilateral cooperation in addressing the root causes of conflict and instability.
The situation in Sudan and Palestine is emblematic of broader trends in global humanitarian crises, where local conflicts are often influenced by international dynamics. The IRC’s findings call for a reevaluation of how aid is delivered and the necessity of engaging with local actors to ensure that assistance reaches those most in need.
As the international community grapples with multiple crises, the IRC’s 2026 Emergency Watchlist serves as a critical tool for raising awareness and prompting action. The inclusion of Sudan and Palestine highlights the urgent need for sustained attention and resources to address the humanitarian challenges faced by millions of people in these regions. The report emphasizes that without concerted efforts to alleviate suffering and promote stability, the situation is likely to worsen, with far-reaching consequences for regional and global security.
