In a significant development in Sudan’s ongoing conflict, the Sudanese military has withdrawn from its last stronghold in the western region of Darfur, el-Fasher, following the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) claiming control of the city. General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, Sudan’s military chief, announced the decision in a televised address, citing the need to protect civilians from “systematic destruction and killing.” He emphasized that the withdrawal was coordinated with local leaders to safeguard remaining residents and prevent further devastation. The United Nations has expressed grave concern over reports of atrocities committed by the RSF in el-Fasher, urging safe passage for trapped civilians. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the violations of international humanitarian law and human rights abuses, highlighting the dire humanitarian crisis in the region. The 18-month siege of el-Fasher and North Darfur has resulted in widespread suffering, with malnutrition, disease, and violence claiming lives daily. The UN Human Rights Office has warned of escalating ethnically motivated atrocities and called on influential states to act. General Burhan criticized the international community’s inaction and vowed to reclaim the region. The fall of el-Fasher marks a pivotal moment in Sudan’s war, which has displaced nearly 12 million people and killed tens of thousands since April 2023. The RSF’s control over all five state capitals in Darfur solidifies its parallel administration in Nyala, South Darfur’s capital.
Sudan’s army loses key city of el-Fasher to paramilitary RSF after 18-month siege
