The people of Sudan are living through unimaginable humanitarian disaster. The war between the Sudanese Army and the RSF (Rapid Support Forces) is growing increasingly violent and destructive. Since last April, a violent coup attempt has been ongoing. It has killed over half a million and forced nearly 12 million from their homes, creating the world’s worst crisis of displacement and hunger. The RSF recently seized control of El-Fasher, the last military stronghold in Sudan’s western Darfur region, displacing tens of thousands more.
The situation in Sudan has become increasingly catastrophic by the day, with alarming reports of mass killings, rapes, and starvation being cited daily. Humanitarian organizations have been sounding urgent alarms. Civilians are paying the price, living in increasingly desperate conditions as they continue to be caught in the middle of a protracted and increasingly brutal war that shows no signs of ending.
Escalation of Violence in El-Fasher
Just as Sudan closed the door on peace talks, on October 26, 2023, the RSF launched a major offensive on El-Fasher, forcing thousands to flee. Just before the fighting escalated, an estimated 260,000 people were residing in the city. Thousands of residents are currently cut off with no way out because roadblocks have been set up by battling groups.
Tens of thousands have been displaced from their homes around El-Fasher. Most are holed up in neighboring localities, many of them safe harbors. The UN condemned the tragic loss of at least 50 civilians in recent clashes in North Kordofan. Five of those killed were active Red Crescent volunteers. Kadugli has been under a months-long siege by the RSF. This continuous fighting has imprisoned tens of thousands as the paramilitary group continues to violently try and assert control over more territory.
“Such acts, if substantiated, may constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity.” – OTP
Reports from Human Rights Watch, the United Nations, and others have documented the RSF’s role in widespread atrocities marked by ethnic intent. The UN’s Martha Pobee called these acts “large-scale atrocities,” mentioning reprisals against those identified as ‘collaborators.’ This level of violence against civilians points to a deeply troubling aspect of the security environment in Sudan.
Humanitarian Crisis Intensifies
The International Criminal Court (ICC) has recently held a Janjaweed chief accountable for war crimes committed over two decades ago in Darfur. Today, the specter of famine hangs heavy over Sudan once more. According to the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), famine– or catastrophic hunger– conditions have extended to two Shabelle regions. Moreover, an additional 20 regions throughout Darfur and Kordofan are threatened.
The IPC stressed the need for immediate action to be taken. This will save lives and prevent an increase in acute food insecurity and malnutrition. During the period of October 26 to October 31, nearly 36,825 individuals have reportedly displaced from five localities of North Kordofan. Amidst this mass exodus, global humanitarian assistance is more urgent than ever.
“Can prevent further loss of life and help contain the extreme levels of acute food insecurity and acute malnutrition.” – IPC
The situation for civilians only grows more dire with each passing day as humanitarian access remains drastically limited. Aid organizations are struggling to reach those in desperate need amidst ongoing violence and roadblocks set up by warring factions.
Calls for Accountability and Urgent Action
The United States has concluded that “members of the RSF and allied militias have committed genocide in Sudan,” underscoring the severity of the situation. The Office of the Prosecutor (OTP) has indicated their profound alarm and deep concern over the conduct of these types in this conflict. Yet, they pledged to hold offenders of these hate crimes accountable.
As the conflict continues, humanitarian organizations such as Save the Children are demanding that the international community take action to quell these emerging catastrophes. We call upon the global community to take principled action to lessen the suffering and prevent further escalation of violence.
