UN Warns of Imminent Atrocities in El Fasher as Siege Intensifies

The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has issued a stark warning regarding the escalating violence in El Fasher, North Darfur, Sudan, citing the imminent risk of large-scale atrocities against civilians. The city, a strategic hub and the capital of North Darfur, has been under siege by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) for over 500 days, with recent fighting significantly intensifying the humanitarian crisis.

Türk's statement highlights a surge in civilian casualties between September 19th and 29th, with at least 91 civilians reportedly killed due to artillery shelling, drone strikes, and ground incursions. These attacks have allegedly targeted civilian infrastructure, raising serious concerns about the deliberate displacement of the population, including residents of the Abu Shouk camp for internally displaced persons (IDPs).

Targeting of Civilian Infrastructure Fuels Displacement Fears

The UN Human Rights Chief emphasized the vulnerability of civilians remaining in El Fasher, including the elderly, people with disabilities, and those with chronic illnesses. He specifically condemned the deliberate targeting of civilian infrastructure, suggesting a calculated strategy to force displacement. This pattern of attacks echoes previous instances of violence against civilians in Darfur and raises fears of ethnically motivated abuses similar to those witnessed in the Zamzam camp earlier this year.

The situation in El Fasher is further complicated by limited humanitarian access. Türk called for an immediate lifting of the siege to allow for the delivery of essential aid to the affected population. The blockade is preventing the entry of food, medicine, and other crucial supplies, exacerbating the already dire conditions within the city.

Historical Context and the Darfur Conflict

The current crisis in El Fasher is deeply rooted in the long-standing conflict in Darfur, which began in 2003. The conflict pitted rebel groups against the government of then-President Omar al-Bashir, resulting in widespread displacement, mass atrocities, and a protracted humanitarian crisis. While the conflict has ebbed and flowed over the years, underlying tensions and unresolved issues continue to fuel instability in the region. The RSF, which is largely composed of Janjaweed militias implicated in atrocities during the early years of the Darfur conflict, has emerged as a major player in the current power struggle in Sudan.

Expert Analysis: A Recipe for Disaster

Dr. Fatima Hassan, a Sudanese political analyst specializing in conflict resolution, warns that the situation in El Fasher represents a "perfect storm" of factors that could lead to a catastrophic outcome. "The combination of a prolonged siege, intensified fighting, deliberate targeting of civilians, and restricted humanitarian access creates an environment where atrocities are almost inevitable," she stated. Dr. Hassan further emphasized the need for urgent international intervention to prevent a repeat of the horrors witnessed in Darfur in the past. "The international community must act decisively to protect civilians and hold those responsible for these atrocities accountable," she added.

Call for Accountability and Humanitarian Access

The UN's warning comes amid growing international concern over the deteriorating security and humanitarian situation in Sudan. The conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the RSF, which erupted in April 2023, has displaced millions of people and pushed the country to the brink of collapse. The situation in El Fasher is particularly alarming due to its strategic importance and the presence of a large IDP population. The international community is urged to exert pressure on all parties to the conflict to cease hostilities, protect civilians, and allow for unimpeded humanitarian access to El Fasher and other affected areas. Failure to do so risks a further escalation of the conflict and a deepening of the humanitarian crisis in Sudan.

Key Concerns Outlined by the UN:

Escalating violence and civilian casualties in El Fasher. Deliberate targeting of civilian infrastructure. Forcible displacement of the population, including IDPs. Restricted humanitarian access due to the ongoing siege. Risk of ethnically motivated abuses.

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights reiterated the need for accountability for those responsible for human rights violations and abuses in Sudan. He called on all parties to the conflict to respect international humanitarian law and human rights law, and to take all necessary measures to protect civilians from harm.