Escalating Violence and Humanitarian Crisis in El Fasher, Sudan

On October 16, 2023, Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) launched attacks on the Abu Shouk displacement camp near el-Fasher, North Darfur, resulting in the deaths of at least 40 individuals, according to local rights groups. The Emergency Response Rooms organization reported that the RSF targeted civilians within their homes, injuring at least 19 others. The camp, which houses approximately 450,000 displaced people, has faced repeated assaults since the outbreak of civil war in April 2023, which has claimed over 40,000 lives and displaced around 12 million people across Sudan.

NBC NewsTruthOutCommunity kitchens: the arteries of life are cut off in El Fasher – Ayin network – ???? ????Hunger crisis deepens in Sudan’s El Fasher as 229 Die under RSF siegeAl-Burhan: We are ready to negotiate for the reform of Sudan and to end the warSudan’s al-Burhan says army ready for talks to end warA force allied with the Sudanese army regains control of the town of Abu Qumra in North Darfur from the Rapid Support ForcesTRT World

The humanitarian situation in el-Fasher has deteriorated significantly, with reports indicating that at least 229 people, including many children and the elderly, have died from hunger since late August due to the RSF's siege. The Humanitarian Aid Commission noted that the blockade has led to severe shortages of food and medical supplies, with only a few community kitchens remaining operational. The RSF has effectively encircled the city, controlling the flow of goods and people, which has exacerbated the already dire conditions.

Hunger crisis deepens in Sudan’s El Fasher as 229 Die under RSF siege

Local volunteers have reported that the rising prices of basic commodities have made it impossible for many residents to afford food. A bottle of cooking oil now costs approximately US$29, while a kilogram of rice is priced at US$53. Many residents have resorted to consuming non-food items out of desperation, and the community kitchens that do operate struggle to meet the overwhelming demand.

Community kitchens: the arteries of life are cut off in El Fasher – Ayin network – ???? ????

In response to the RSF's actions, the Sudanese military claimed to have repelled a large-scale attack in el-Fasher, asserting that they inflicted heavy losses on the RSF, including the destruction of combat vehicles. Sudan's Sovereignty Council Chairman, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, emphasized that the armed forces would continue to confront the RSF, denying any targeted attacks against specific tribes or regions. Al-Burhan stated that the military is open to negotiations aimed at restoring Sudan's unity but rejected any imposed peace agreements.

Sudan’s al-Burhan says army ready for talks to end warTRT WorldNBC NewsAl-Burhan: We are ready to negotiate for the reform of Sudan and to end the warA force allied with the Sudanese army regains control of the town of Abu Qumra in North Darfur from the Rapid Support ForcesCommunity kitchens: the arteries of life are cut off in El Fasher – Ayin network – ???? ????TruthOutHunger crisis deepens in Sudan’s El Fasher as 229 Die under RSF siege

Critics of the RSF have highlighted the humanitarian violations occurring in el-Fasher, with local activist groups condemning the attacks on defenseless civilians. The Resistance Committees in el-Fasher described the situation as a reflection of "horrific violations" against the community. Humanitarian organizations have called for immediate action to lift the blockade and facilitate food airdrops to alleviate the suffering of those trapped in the city.

Community kitchens: the arteries of life are cut off in El Fasher – Ayin network – ???? ????

There are discrepancies regarding the total death toll from the ongoing conflict. While the Sudanese military claims that over 20,000 people have died, research from American universities suggests the figure may exceed 130,000. Additionally, the humanitarian situation continues to evolve, with reports of increasing malnutrition and disease outbreaks among the displaced population.

Hunger crisis deepens in Sudan’s El Fasher as 229 Die under RSF siege

As the conflict continues, humanitarian organizations are urging for international intervention to provide relief to the besieged populations in el-Fasher. The situation remains critical, with ongoing military confrontations and a dire need for food and medical supplies.

Hunger crisis deepens in Sudan’s El Fasher as 229 Die under RSF siege