Sudan’s civil war has taken a horrific turn as fighting intensifies in El Fasher, the last major government-held city in Darfur.
Medical charity Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) reported a staggering 134 deaths at their South Hospital alone in just over two weeks. MSF says this surge is a “sign of the violent intensity of the fighting” between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
El Fasher has become a refuge for people displaced by the war, but the RSF’s assault has trapped residents. The RSF’s attacks reportedly target residential areas, markets, and hospitals. Both the Saudi and South hospitals, the last functioning facilities, are struggling.
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The UN warns that supplies at El Fasher’s hospitals will run out within a week. Residents also face dwindling access to food and water as the RSF blocks supply routes.
Despite the dangers, many residents remain in El Fasher due to the perilous journey out. Journalist Mohamed Zakaria exemplifies this dilemma, stating, “There is no place to go to… the road is very difficult and dangerous right now.”
The UN warns of a growing risk of genocide in Darfur as the world grapples with other conflicts. UN Special Adviser Alice Wairimu Nderitu emphasizes the urgent need for international attention to prevent further atrocities.
