The United Nations has issued a stark warning over the deteriorating situation in El Fasher, North Darfur, as escalating violence threatens civilians trapped in the besieged city.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed grave concern over the ongoing siege by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which has lasted more than 500 days. Recent weeks have seen a surge in attacks, forcing thousands to flee displacement camps under relentless shelling and raids.
One of the hardest-hit areas is the Abu Shouk displacement camp, among the largest in the region. Reports indicate that residents have abandoned their shelters after sustained assaults, including a recent attack on a mosque that reportedly killed dozens of worshippers. The UN highlighted that famine conditions, already identified last year, have worsened amid the violence.
“The situation in Abu Shouk and other displacement camps near El Fasher has deteriorated dramatically,” Guterres’ spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said. The UN has also warned of an increased risk of ethnically motivated violence as fighters push deeper into the city.
Guterres called for an immediate cessation of hostilities, emphasizing the need to protect civilians under international humanitarian law. He urged both sides to allow safe and unhindered humanitarian access and to provide secure routes for civilians wishing to flee conflict zones.
The Secretary-General also highlighted the importance of dialogue, urging the parties to de-escalate violence and return to negotiations for a sustainable political solution. His Personal Envoy, Ramtane Lamamra, remains ready to collaborate with regional and international partners to end the conflict and support an inclusive political process.
Since April 2023, Sudan has been engulfed in conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the RSF, displacing millions, triggering famine in several regions, and leaving civilians trapped with limited access to humanitarian aid.
As world leaders gather in New York for high-level UN meetings next week, Guterres renewed his call for coordinated international action to protect the Sudanese population and work toward lasting peace.
