The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces have captured the Sudanese city of el-Fasher, sparking fears of mass killings and atrocities against civilians trapped in the besieged area. The United Nations has raised alarms over credible reports of summary executions and other violations.
The fall of el-Fasher marks a significant escalation in Sudan’s civil war, which began in April 2023. After an 18-month siege, the RSF declared control of the city, leading to the withdrawal of government forces. Military chief Gen Abdel Fattah al-Burhan approved the retreat in response to the systematic destruction and killing of civilians, highlighting the dire situation on the ground.
Humanitarian conditions in el-Fasher have deteriorated rapidly, with hundreds of thousands of civilians trapped and facing severe hunger. The only functioning hospital in the city was attacked, resulting in the death of a nurse and further crippling medical services. Aid agencies warn of a looming catastrophe if safe passage is not secured for those attempting to flee.
International organizations have documented horrific atrocities. The UN reported being “horrified” by accounts of summary executions, sexual violence, and house-to-house raids by RSF fighters. Yale University’s Humanitarian Research Lab provided satellite imagery showing “piles of bodies executed en masse,” with evidence of apparent blood pools, indicating widespread violence.
Eyewitnesses who managed to escape describe terrifying scenes and loss of contact with relatives. One man recounted that several family members were “massacred” while gathered together, and communication lines have been cut since the RSF takeover. These accounts underscore the panic and distress among those affected.
The international community has condemned the violence. The European Union called for all warring parties to de-escalate, while the African Union denounced alleged war crimes and ethnically targeted killings. UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed grave concern and condemned violations of international humanitarian law.
The capture of el-Fasher could represent a turning point in the conflict, as the RSF now controls all five state capitals in Darfur, consolidating its power. With over 150,000 deaths and millions displaced nationwide, the situation highlights the urgent need for a peaceful resolution and international intervention to prevent further bloodshed.