The situation in Sudan's Darfur region has worsened, with the UN reporting over 400 fatalities linked to the Rapid Support Forces' assaults on refugee camps in El-Fasher. As the conflict rages on, millions are left displaced and in desperate need of assistance.
UN Reports Over 400 Casualties Amid Renewed Violence in Sudan's Darfur Region
UN Reports Over 400 Casualties Amid Renewed Violence in Sudan's Darfur Region
The UN cites credible sources as saying that over 400 people have died following recent attacks by the Rapid Support Forces in Darfur, exacerbating the ongoing humanitarian crisis.
In a tragic escalation of violence, the United Nations has reported that more than 400 individuals have been killed due to the recent attacks by the paramilitary group Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan's Darfur region. The alarming figures were presented by UN representatives who referred to “credible sources” as the basis for their claims.
The RSF intensified its military operations last week, launching a significant ground and aerial offensive aimed at gaining control of the last major state capital in Darfur still held by the Sudanese army, located in the city of El-Fasher. The ongoing conflict, which has pitted the RSF against the Sudanese military since April 2023, has led to what is now recognized as the world's worst humanitarian catastrophe, with millions forced to flee their homes.
According to the UN, during a window from Thursday to Saturday, they verified at least 148 fatalities. However, officials cautioned that the true toll is likely much higher and does not account for additional violence reported on subsequent days. UN spokeswoman Ravina Shamdasani highlighted the ongoing verification process, asserting that credible accounts point to significantly greater loss of life.
Among the deceased are at least nine humanitarian aid workers, heightening concerns about the safety of those providing critical assistance in the region. The refugee camps surrounding El-Fasher, including Zamzam and Abu Shouk, currently house over 700,000 individuals, many of whom are enduring dire conditions akin to famine.
In a statement, the RSF denied responsibility for the violence directed at civilians, suggesting that the images of killing coming from Zamzam were fabricated to tarnish its reputation. The group asserted that it had successfully taken control of the camp, alleging that the Sudanese army had been using the location as a military outpost while endangering innocent lives.
El-Fasher, which remains the final major town in Darfur under military control, has been similarly besieged by the RSF for nearly a year. As the brutal civil war approaches its third anniversary this coming Tuesday, UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk has called for all involved parties to commit to genuine efforts aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict and restoring peace.
