Charity Reports Over 900 Wounded in Deadly Fighting in Sudan’s Darfur Region
Recent reports from an aid group have brought to light the devastating toll of the ongoing conflict in Sudan’s Darfur region. More than 100 people have lost their lives in just over two weeks in the city of el-Fasher, the capital of North Darfur province. The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have been engaged in fierce fighting, resulting in at least 134 fatalities and over 900 injuries since May 10.
Among the casualties was a staff watchman at a local pharmacy in el-Fasher, who tragically succumbed to his injuries after his home was struck by shelling. The situation on the ground is dire, with the number of casualties continuing to rise as the conflict intensifies. Doctors without Borders (MSF) has called on all parties involved to prioritize the protection of civilians amidst the escalating violence.
El-Fasher has become a battleground as the RSF advances, aiming to seize control of the city, which remains a stronghold for the Sudanese Armed Forces. The recent offensive by the RSF has prompted ex-Darfur rebel leaders Minni Minnawi and Jibril Ibrahim to align themselves with the SAF in an effort to defend the city.
The RSF, a paramilitary group born out of the infamous “Janjaweed” forces, has been accused of committing atrocities in Darfur during the earlier years of the conflict. The renewed clashes in el-Fasher have reignited fears of further violence and instability in the region.
Sudan has been plagued by conflict since last year, with the power struggle between the SAF and the RSF escalating into a full-blown war. The repercussions have been felt not only in the capital Khartoum but also in regions like Darfur, where historical grievances have resurfaced, leading to a deepening humanitarian crisis.
According to UN estimates, the ongoing conflict has claimed the lives of 14,000 individuals and displaced millions from their homes. The UN World Food Programme has warned of a looming famine, with nearly five million people on the brink of starvation.
The fall of el-Fasher to the RSF would exacerbate an already dire situation, further threatening the lives of civilians in Darfur. Observers fear that the city’s capture could lead to widespread suffering and humanitarian catastrophe in the region.
As the world watches the events unfolding in Darfur, there is a growing sense of urgency to address the escalating violence and protect the vulnerable populations caught in the crossfire. The international community must step up efforts to bring an end to the conflict and alleviate the suffering of those affected by the crisis.