Tragic Shelling in Sudan Claims Lives at Displaced People's Market

An assault on a market in the Abu Shouk camp for displaced individuals, just outside el-Fasher, Sudan, has resulted in numerous deaths and injuries. This incident highlights the ongoing humanitarian crisis and violence in the region, exacerbated by intensified conflict since April 2023.

In a devastating incident on Tuesday evening, many civilians in North Darfur are feared dead as heavy shelling targeted a bustling market in the Abu Shouk camp for displaced people. Previously safe and populated by over half a million individuals forced from their homes, the camp came under attack from the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) for about two hours, according to local officials.

Abu Shouk's market was filled with shoppers looking to break their fast during the holy month of Ramadan when the shelling began—marking the second attack on the camp in just three days. The camp remains the last significant area near el-Fasher under government control, held under siege by the RSF for nearly a year.

Dr. Ibrahim Nadyan, a local medic from el-Fasher's sole operational hospital, reported several injuries ranging from mild to severe. The RSF previously targeted the camp on Sunday, resulting in six civilian deaths.

Since the onset of violent conflict in April 2023, the war has claimed tens of thousands of lives and displaced millions, leaving many on the brink of famine. Both the RSF and the Sudanese army have faced severe criticism for alleged atrocities during the conflict, with reports of genocide targeting non-Arab groups in Darfur.

While the army has regained control of parts of Khartoum and its vicinity, the conflict remains deeply divided, with the RSF dominating the western region of Darfur and portions of the south. This ongoing situation serves as a grim reminder of the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Sudan, where the plight of displaced individuals continues to worsen against a backdrop of violence and chaos.