Sudan’s army is at risk of losing the last major city it controls in Darfur to the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), according to reports from analysts, local monitors, and RSF sources. The RSF has been using drones, artillery, and surrounding tactics to besiege el-Fasher, the capital of North Darfur state. This could potentially lead to crimes against humanity and a humanitarian catastrophe in the region.
The RSF, which emerged from tribal militias in 2013, has been accused of mass killings and systematic gang rapes in its efforts to gain control over Darfur. The conflict between the RSF and the army has escalated into civil war, with both sides accused of committing atrocities. The RSF has set its sights on capturing el-Fasher to make up for losses in other areas.
Civilians in the Zamzam camp for displaced people are particularly vulnerable if el-Fasher falls, as they have already faced genocidal violence in the past. The RSF, supported by sophisticated weapons from external sources, poses a significant threat to the population. Rights groups and analysts fear that the capture of el-Fasher by the RSF could result in the largest ethnic mass killing in history.
Despite assurances from the United Arab Emirates that they are not supporting the warring parties in Sudan, there are allegations that they are providing weapons to the RSF. The international community has been called upon to take action to protect civilians and end the conflict. Observers warn that without intervention, the situation in Darfur could continue to deteriorate, leading to more violence and suffering for the population.
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