A Sudanese paramilitary force is currently engaged in combat with the remaining resistance in El Fasher, a city in Darfur that has been under siege for 18 months. The capture of El Fasher by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) could solidify a division between rival military factions in the country. Concerns have been raised about potential reprisals against the approximately 250,000 residents still in El Fasher and the escalation of conflict in other parts of Sudan.
Following the RSF’s claim of seizing the army’s headquarters in El Fasher on Sunday, reports indicated that fleeing civilians in nearby areas were being detained by the paramilitary forces. The International Organization for Migration reported that around 26,000 individuals had been displaced due to the ongoing fighting. Sources revealed that thousands of soldiers from the Sudanese army and allied rebel groups were encircled by RSF fighters after retreating into western neighborhoods of El Fasher.
The United Nations emergency relief coordinator, Tom Fletcher, expressed deep concern over the reports of civilian casualties and forced displacement in El Fasher. He emphasized the urgent need for an immediate ceasefire to ensure the safety and well-being of the trapped civilians in the city. However, intensified attacks have hindered humanitarian access to provide essential aid to those in need.
Darfur, where the RSF is based, houses a parallel government established by the paramilitary force. Analysts warn that the RSF’s complete control of the region could have detrimental consequences, potentially leading to a partition similar to that of Libya. The RSF’s recent advancements in Bara, North Kordofan, have put them within reach of Khartoum, the capital city.
If diplomatic efforts for peace talks do not progress, the conflict in Sudan could worsen, leading to further humanitarian crises and displacement. Foreign involvement and the supply of advanced weaponry to the RSF have complicated efforts to reach a political resolution. The RSF’s continued military efforts pose ongoing challenges to achieving stability in the region.
Reports suggest that the RSF is directing fleeing civilians to designated areas for displacement camps, raising concerns about the safety and well-being of the displaced population. Activists have highlighted the risk of revenge attacks on civilians, particularly from the Zaghawa tribe, following the intense fighting in El Fasher. Allegations of human rights abuses by RSF fighters, including shootings and violence against unarmed individuals, have also surfaced.
Overall, the situation in El Fasher remains volatile, with the potential for further violence and displacement if a peaceful resolution is not reached soon.