UN Condemns Escalating Violence in Sudan's El Fasher Amid Rapid Support Forces Attack
The ongoing conflict in Sudan has escalated dramatically, with the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressing deep concern over a large-scale offensive by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in El Fasher, North Darfur. Reports indicate that the RSF's actions threaten to exacerbate an already dire humanitarian situation, potentially sparking further tribal conflicts in the region. Guterres has called for an immediate cessation of hostilities, urging Lieutenant General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, to take responsibility and halt the attack.
Since the outbreak of war in April 2023 between the Sudanese army and the RSF, the conflict has resulted in one of the world's largest displacement crises. The UN's warning highlights the critical nature of the situation, with El Fasher, a city of approximately 1.8 million residents, now at risk of being engulfed in violence. The UN Security Council had previously mandated the RSF to cease hostilities and lift the siege on El Fasher, yet the situation remains precarious.
In a related development, US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan stated that the Sudan crisis will be a significant topic of discussion during President Joe Biden's upcoming meeting with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. This comes in light of accusations from the Sudanese government against the UAE for allegedly providing support to the RSF, further complicating international efforts to stabilize the region.
The international community is urged to engage in sensitive diplomatic discussions to redirect the conflict towards a more peaceful resolution, as the ongoing violence continues to threaten the safety and security of civilians in Darfur. The UN's focus on the situation underscores the urgent need for a concerted effort to restore peace and prevent further humanitarian catastrophe.
