The UN has reported that more than 400 people have died due to intensifying violence from the Rapid Support Forces in Sudan's Darfur region, igniting a humanitarian crisis as thousands flee their homes seeking refuge.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens: Over 400 Killed in Recent Attacks in Sudan
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens: Over 400 Killed in Recent Attacks in Sudan
Recent attacks in Sudan's Darfur region have led to over 400 deaths, as reported by the UN, amidst an ongoing civil war.
More than 400 individuals have lost their lives in recent assaults by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan's Darfur region, according to the United Nations based on "credible sources." Last week, the RSF initiated a major ground and aerial offensive surrounding the city of El-Fasher, targeting refugee camps in their bid to capture the last state capital in Darfur held by the rival Sudanese army. Since April 2023, the two factions have been embroiled in a violent power struggle, resulting in the most significant humanitarian crisis in the world and prompting millions to abandon their homes.
The UN has confirmed 148 fatalities from Thursday to Saturday, although they caution that the figure is likely to be much higher. UN spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani stated that their verification process remains ongoing and does not include violent incidents reported on Sunday. "Credible sources have indicated more than 400 lives lost," stated Shamdasani. Among those killed were at least nine humanitarian aid workers.
The refugee camps around El-Fasher, notably Zamzam and Abu Shouk, are home to over 700,000 displaced individuals, many of whom are grappling with near-famine conditions. In a statement, the RSF denied responsibility for civilian attacks and alleged that the scenes of violence in Zamzam were fabricated to tarnish their reputation. The following day, they claimed to have successfully liberated the camp from Sudan's army, insisting that the army utilized Zamzam as a military stronghold while using civilians as human shields.
El-Fasher remains the last significant town in Darfur under army control, besieged by the RSF for the past year. This brutal civil war in Sudan is set to enter its third year on Tuesday. UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk urged all involved parties to "renew their commitment to take concrete measures toward resolving the conflict."
