Sudan’s Darfur Crisis Deepens: UN Says ‘Horror Knows No Bounds’
Surge in Violence Grips North Darfur
Over 540 people have been killed in Sudan’s North Darfur in just three weeks, with the United Nations warning that the actual death toll is likely higher.
The regional capital, El-Fasher, is under intense attack as the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) escalate their campaign against the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF).
“The horror unfolding in Sudan knows no bounds,” said Volker Turk, the UN high commissioner for human rights, in a statement on Thursday, highlighting the devastating toll of the two-year civil war.
Mass Exodus and Humanitarian Struggles
The RSF’s recent assaults on El-Fasher and nearby Zamzam and Abu Shouk displacement camps have triggered massive displacement, with over 400,000 people fleeing Zamzam alone, most seeking refuge in Tawila, 60km away.
“Civilians trapped amid dire conditions” face increasing harassment and arbitrary detentions at checkpoints, Turk noted, after an RSF attack three days ago killed at least 40 civilians.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres, “appalled” by the situation, called for safe humanitarian access and civilian protection, emphasizing accountability for violations.
Aid Efforts Under Strain
Despite escalating violence, humanitarian agencies are delivering aid.
A UN convoy led by Antoine Gérard recently crossed from Chad to Darfur, carrying nutrition, medical supplies, and dignity kits to Tawila.
The UN World Food Programme (WFP) has begun food distributions in Tawila, reaching 220,000 people, and in Khartoum’s Burri and Alazhari areas, assisting nearly 28,000.
However, WFP warned that funding shortages and the rainy season threaten progress.
“Perpetrators of serious violations must be held accountable,” said UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric, stressing the need for justice.
Strategic Battles and Civilian Toll
The RSF’s push for El-Fasher and West Kordofan’s al-Nuhud underscores the city’s strategic importance, with both sides vying for control.
Al Jazeera’s Hiba Morgan reported from Khartoum that the RSF aims to thwart SAF’s plans to retake Darfur cities.
Turk condemned “extremely disturbing” reports of extrajudicial executions in Khartoum state, citing videos showing RSF forces killing 30 civilians in Omdurman.
With 12.7 million displaced and famine spreading, the UN urges an end to the conflict.