Sudanese Militia Advance Sparks Fear in Darfur City Residents

Fears are rising among residents of El Fasher as the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) intensify their control in Darfur. This paramilitary group has reportedly taken the final stronghold of the Sudanese army in the city. As fighting continues, concerns about ethnic cleansing have emerged, alongside apprehensions that Sudan might fracture into separate regions.

Rapid Support Forces Seize Control

On Sunday, the RSF announced its takeover of the Sudanese military base in El Fasher. This city has been under siege for over a year, and the government has not confirmed the RSF’s claim. Ethnic Arab militias, aligned with the RSF, are accused of committing acts of genocide against African ethnic groups in Darfur.

Impact on Civilians

• Approximately 2,500 to 3,000 people have fled El Fasher since the conflict escalated.
• Humanitarian conditions have deteriorated, with civilians trapped and lacking access to food and medical care.
• Reports indicate that the RSF has celebrated their gains while pursuing fleeing individuals.

The Humanitarian Research Lab at Yale University confirmed significant damage at key infrastructure, including the airport and military headquarters in El Fasher. Humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher highlighted the plight of hundreds of thousands of civilians facing dire conditions.

International Response

In light of the escalating crisis, Massad Boulos, a U.S.-based envoy, urged the opening of humanitarian corridors. However, there are growing frustrations regarding the international community’s response, with accusations of a lack of action to protect vulnerable civilians.

Deteriorating Humanitarian Situation

Doctors Without Borders reported a troubling influx of individuals seeking medical aid. During a recent night, around 1,000 refugees from El Fasher were treated, with many suffering from malnutrition.

Long-Term Consequences

• Over two years of conflict have claimed tens of thousands of lives and displaced 14 million people.
• International involvement complicates the crisis, with support divided among various factions.
• Concerns persist that Darfur’s instability could lead to a division akin to that seen during Sudan’s last civil war.

With the RSF now dominating El Fasher, experts warn of the risk that the conflict could lead Sudan to fragment completely, mirroring historical precedents from earlier regional conflicts.