Rising Tensions in Sudan: The Crisis in El-Fasher
Background on the Conflict
Sudan has been embroiled in conflict since April 2023, ignited by a power struggle between army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his former deputy, RSF commander Mohamed Hamdan Daglo. This turmoil has resulted in a catastrophic humanitarian crisis, with tens of thousands killed and more than 12 million people uprooted from their homes. As the conflict festers, the situation in El-Fasher, the capital of North Darfur, has become increasingly alarming. This city represents the last bastion of army control in Darfur, making it a strategic target for the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), who are determined to consolidate their power across the region.
Recent Attack on El-Fasher
On a grim Friday recently, paramilitary forces unleashed a devastating assault on El-Fasher, resulting in the death of 57 civilians. Activists reported that the RSF bombarded the city with heavy artillery while simultaneously launching lethal drone and sniper attacks. The local resistance committee noted that the violence peaked around 5:00 PM local time, with 32 civilians—including women and children—killed in urban areas. Witnesses recounted harrowing scenes of RSF combat vehicles storming through the Zamzam displacement camp, where they killed an additional 25 civilians, further exacerbating the already dire humanitarian situation.
The Humanitarian Crisis
Notably, Zamzam camp is situated near El-Fasher and has borne the brunt of two years of continuous fighting. The conditions are bleak, compounded by ongoing famine threats. According to reports, Zamzam was among the first areas in Sudan to experience a UN-backed famine declaration, and the situation has since deteriorated. In December, additional camps like Abu Shouk and Al Salam were also classified at risk of famine.
The Nature of the Assault
Eyewitnesses described the chaotic nature of the RSF’s attack on El-Fasher. Reports indicate that the assault came from multiple directions—east, south, and west—with heavy bombardment preceding ground invasion. Drones were employed to target central El-Fasher, adding a high-tech layer to the brutal conflict. This kind of multi-faceted assault showcases a troubling evolution in warfare tactics being adopted by the RSF, which is intensifying their campaigns as they seek to gain full control over Darfur.
Subsequent Violence
The assault in El-Fasher is not an isolated incident. Just the day before, RSF forces had shelled the nearby Abu Shouk camp, resulting in at least 15 deaths and numerous injuries. As reported by residents, the RSF is increasingly aggressive in their tactics, with artillery bombardments and relentless attacks showing that the paramilitaries will stop at nothing to assert their dominance in the region.
Broader Implications of the Conflict
The struggle for control in Sudan continues to be profoundly complex. After recovering the capital Khartoum, the army faces persistent challenges from the RSF, which retains a stronghold in Darfur and parts of southern Sudan. The conflict has disrupted governance and peace efforts, leaving civilians trapped in a cycle of violence. The RSF’s push toward seizing El-Fasher marks a pivotal moment in this conflict, as it could tilt the balance of power dramatically in their favor.
Voices of Concern
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk has expressed grave concerns about the escalating violence and its devastating implications for civilians. Turk underscored the need for immediate action from both the conflicting parties and the international community, urging an end to what he termed a "destructive path." His calls highlight the urgent necessity for a collaborative effort to restore peace and stability in Sudan before the situation slips further into chaos.
In light of the escalating violence and dire humanitarian conditions, the plight of the Sudanese people remains a pressing concern. Each day reveals new layers of tragedy and strife, as countless individuals find themselves at the mercy of forces battling for control over their homeland.
