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Sudan’s Darfur Region Grapples with Escalating Violence as Civilian Deaths Mount
Recent intensified attacks in Sudan’s Darfur region by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have reportedly resulted in a staggering death toll, with credible sources cited by the UN indicating over 400 fatalities. This surge in violence exacerbates the already dire humanitarian crisis in Sudan, triggered by the ongoing conflict between the RSF and the Sudanese army.
RSF Offensive Intensifies Around El-Fasher
Last week witnessed a significant escalation in the conflict as the RSF initiated a heavy ground and aerial assault targeting displacement camps located around El-Fasher. This strategic offensive appears to be an attempt by the RSF to seize control of El-Fasher, the last remaining state capital in Darfur under the control of the Sudanese army, their adversaries in the prolonged power struggle.
Protracted Conflict Fuels Humanitarian Crisis
Since April 2023, the two opposing factions have been engaged in a brutal power struggle, plunging Sudan into a devastating civil war. This protracted conflict has precipitated the world’s largest humanitarian emergency, compelling millions of Sudanese citizens to abandon their homes in search of safety and refuge.
UN Confirms Rising Death Toll, Warns of Higher Figures
The United Nations has verified 148 deaths between Thursday and Saturday. However, UN representatives caution that this figure is likely a significant underestimation of the actual casualties, indicating the death toll is considerably higher as verification processes continue and reports of ongoing violence emerge.
International Officials to Discuss Sudan Crisis in London
Senior international officials are scheduled to convene in London to address the persisting civil war in Sudan. This meeting coincides with the second anniversary of the conflict’s commencement, underscoring the urgency and protracted nature of the crisis requiring international attention and potential intervention.
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Eyewitness Accounts and Ongoing Verification
Speaking to the BBC, UN spokeswoman Ravina Shamdasani emphasized that the ongoing verification process means the confirmed death toll does not yet encompass the fatalities from Sunday’s violence. She reiterated that “credible sources have reported more than 400 killed,” suggesting the situation is far graver than officially confirmed figures.
Aid Workers Among the Deceased
Adding to the tragedy, the UN has reported that at least nine humanitarian aid workers are among those killed in the recent violence. These casualties highlight the extreme risks faced by those attempting to provide assistance to vulnerable populations affected by the Sudan conflict.
Dire Conditions in Displacement Camps
The displacement camps surrounding El-Fasher, notably Zamzam and Abu Shouk, are currently providing shelter to over 700,000 individuals. Alarmingly, a significant portion of this displaced population is facing near-famine conditions, exacerbating the humanitarian catastrophe within these camps.
RSF Denies Responsibility, Accuses Army
In a public statement released on Saturday, the RSF disavowed any responsibility for attacks targeting civilians. The group further alleged that reports and scenes of killings in Zamzam camp were fabricated and staged with the intent to discredit their forces amidst escalating accusations of atrocities.
RSF Claims “Liberation” of Zamzam Camp
Conversely, the RSF subsequently announced that they had successfully “liberated” Zamzam camp from the control of the Sudanese army. In their statement, the RSF accused the army of utilizing Zamzam as “a military barracks, and innocent civilians as human shields,” attempting to justify their actions in the contested area.
El-Fasher: Last Army Stronghold in Darfur
El-Fasher holds strategic importance as the last major urban center in Darfur still under the Sudanese army’s control. The city has endured a prolonged siege by the RSF for approximately a year, underscoring its contested status in the ongoing conflict. Sudan’s devastating civil war is poised to enter its third year on Tuesday, signaling a deeply entrenched and intractable conflict.
UN Human Rights Chief Urges Conflict Resolution
Volker Türk, the UN Human Rights Chief, has issued a strong appeal to all parties involved in the Sudan conflict. He urged them to “renew their determination to take concrete actions towards resolving the conflict,” emphasizing the critical need for de-escalation and a peaceful resolution to the protracted crisis.
UK Announces Aid Package Ahead of London Conference
Prior to the scheduled conference in London, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy announced a substantial £120 million aid package earmarked for Sudan. This financial commitment aims to provide crucial food and humanitarian assistance to the country grappling with severe consequences of the ongoing conflict.
UK Emphasizes Sudan’s Stability for National Security
Mr. Lammy underscored the strategic importance of Sudan’s stability, asserting that it is “vital for our national security.” This statement highlights the international security implications of the Sudan conflict, extending beyond the immediate humanitarian crisis within the country.
International Collaboration for Sudan Talks
The United Kingdom is set to co-host the upcoming talks on Sudan in London, in collaboration with the African Union and the European Union. This joint effort signifies a concerted international approach to address the complex challenges posed by the Sudanese civil war and to seek pathways towards stability and peace.