In brief
The conflict in Sudan has escalated, leading to significant civilian casualties and displacing millions.
More than 400 individuals have reportedly lost their lives due to recent attacks by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan's Darfur region, according to the United Nations which cites credible sources. The RSF commenced a severe ground and aerial offensive last week, targeting refugee camps in the vicinity of El-Fasher, aiming to capture the last state capital in Darfur that remains under the control of the Sudanese army. This violent clash marks an intensification of the power struggle between these factions that has persisted since April 2023, resulting in a humanitarian crisis of unprecedented scale and forcing millions to abandon their homes.While the UN confirmed 148 fatalities between Thursday and Saturday, spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani acknowledged that this figure is likely to rise, as their verification efforts continue and do not account for violence on Sunday. Shamdasani highlighted that credible sources indicated over 400 killed, including at least nine humanitarian workers.The refugee camps surrounding El-Fasher, including Zamzam and Abu Shouk, provide shelter to over 700,000 displaced individuals, many of whom are facing severe food shortages. In a statement issued on Saturday, the RSF denied responsibility for civilian casualties, alleging that the reports are fabricated to undermine their reputation. They further claimed a successful takeover of the camp from Sudan’s army, accusing the military of using civilians as shields.El-Fasher remains the last significant town in Darfur under military oversight, enduring a siege by RSF forces for the past year. As the conflict in Sudan prepares to mark its third year, UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk has urged all parties to recommit to finding a resolution to this ongoing crisis.
