Escalation of Conflict in Sudan: RSF Claims Control of El-Fasher

The ongoing civil war in Sudan has reached a critical juncture as the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) claim to have taken full control of El-Fasher, the last major urban center in Darfur held by the Sudanese army. This development follows an 18-month siege and marks a significant turning point in the conflict that has resulted in over 150,000 deaths and displaced approximately 12 million people since April 2023.

Rebel group claims capture of Sudan army headquarters in key cityBBC NewsCBC News

The RSF announced their capture of El-Fasher, asserting that they have seized the army's 6th Division Headquarters and destroyed substantial military equipment. Videos verified by BBC show RSF fighters celebrating this victory, although local pro-army groups contest the RSF's claims, stating that fighting continues in parts of the city. The Sudanese military has not officially acknowledged the loss of El-Fasher, which is critical for maintaining their foothold in the region.

Rebel group claims capture of Sudan army headquarters in key cityBBC News

The humanitarian situation in El-Fasher is dire, with around 300,000 civilians trapped amid ongoing violence. Reports indicate severe shortages of food and medical supplies, exacerbated by the RSF's siege. UN officials, including Secretary-General António Guterres, have expressed alarm over the escalating violence and the humanitarian crisis, calling for immediate ceasefire negotiations. The UN has described the situation in Sudan as the world's largest humanitarian crisis, with millions in need of assistance.

Despite the RSF's claims of protecting civilians, they have faced accusations of committing atrocities, including ethnically motivated killings and looting. Critics, including Minni Minnawi, the governor of Darfur, have called for independent investigations into these violations. The Sudanese government has dismissed the RSF's claims as "psychological warfare," asserting that the rebellion has been defeated in several locations.

UN humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher has urged for an immediate ceasefire, emphasizing the urgent need for humanitarian access to affected areas. Guterres has also highlighted the detrimental impact of foreign interference in the conflict, calling on nations supplying weapons to cease their support. The U.S. has echoed these sentiments, advocating for safe passage for civilians and a negotiated ceasefire.

While the RSF claims full control of El-Fasher, reports from local military sources suggest that fighting persists in various neighborhoods. The Sudanese army has not confirmed the RSF's assertions, leading to uncertainty about the actual situation on the ground. Additionally, the extent of civilian casualties remains difficult to verify due to restricted access to the city.

The situation in El-Fasher is poised to influence the broader dynamics of the civil war in Sudan. Analysts warn that the RSF's consolidation of power in Darfur could lead to a geographical division of the country, with the army controlling the north and east while the RSF dominates the west. International diplomatic efforts continue, but tangible progress towards peace remains elusive as both sides remain entrenched in their positions.