What's happened
The RSF seized al-Fashir in Darfur on October 26, consolidating control amid reports of mass killings, abductions, and ongoing violence. Witnesses describe civilians targeted by drones and armed fighters, with international concern mounting over atrocities and humanitarian crises. Ceasefire talks are ongoing, but violence persists.
What's behind the headline?
The fall of al-Fashir signifies a critical turning point in Sudan's civil war, with the RSF establishing de facto control over a substantial part of Darfur. The reports of mass killings, abductions, and use of drones highlight the brutal nature of the conflict and the potential for further atrocities. The involvement of regional powers, notably the UAE's alleged support for the RSF through weapon supplies, underscores the geopolitical stakes. The international community's calls for ceasefires have so far failed, and the ongoing violence risks deepening the humanitarian crisis. The use of advanced military technology like drones indicates a shift towards more lethal, technologically driven warfare, which will likely prolong instability and complicate peace efforts. The situation remains fluid, with civilians trapped and aid efforts hampered, suggesting that the humanitarian toll will worsen unless immediate diplomatic and military de-escalation occurs.
What the papers say
The Independent reports on the recent violence and international alarm, emphasizing eyewitness accounts of atrocities and the ongoing conflict's brutality. Reuters provides detailed descriptions of the events inside al-Fashir, corroborating aid and UN reports of mass casualties and mass graves, while also highlighting the strategic movements of the RSF and the international responses. All sources note the involvement of regional powers like the UAE and Egypt, with differing narratives about support and influence, illustrating the complex geopolitical landscape fueling the conflict. The articles collectively underscore the severity of the humanitarian crisis and the international community's limited success in halting the violence.
How we got here
The conflict in Sudan escalated in 2023 when the RSF and the military, both ruling after overthrowing a pro-democracy movement, turned against each other. The RSF, originating from the Janjaweed militias, has a history of ethnic violence in Darfur. The recent fall of al-Fashir marks a significant escalation, with reports of mass casualties and mass graves, amid international accusations of genocide and ethnic cleansing. Support from regional powers like the UAE and Egypt influences the conflict dynamics, with allegations of weapons supplies fueling ongoing violence.
Go deeper
Common question
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Why Are Civilians Being Caught in the Crossfire in Sudan?
The ongoing conflict in Sudan has led to widespread violence, leaving civilians vulnerable and trapped in dangerous areas. Many wonder what is causing this violence, how it affects everyday lives, and what can be done to help. Below, we explore the key questions about the crisis in Sudan and what it means for innocent people caught in the conflict.
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What’s the Big Picture in Today’s Global News?
With so many major stories unfolding worldwide, it’s natural to wonder how they connect and what they mean for the future. From diplomatic shifts to humanitarian crises, understanding the bigger picture helps us make sense of today’s headlines. Below, we explore key questions about the latest international developments and what to watch for next.
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What Is Happening in Darfur Right Now?
Darfur is currently experiencing intense conflict following the fall of el-Fasher to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Reports describe widespread violence, civilian casualties, and ongoing atrocities. Many are asking: what exactly is happening in Darfur today, and what does it mean for the people living there? Below, we answer some of the most common questions about this crisis and the international response.
More on these topics
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The Rapid Support Forces are Sudanese paramilitary forces operated by the Sudanese Government. The RSF grew out of, and is primarily composed of, the Janjaweed militias which fought on behalf of the Sudanese government during the War in Darfur, killing an
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Al-Fashir (also alternatively rendered as El Fasher; Arabic: الفاشر, romanized: al-Fāshir) is a city in western Sudan. It serves as the capital of the North Darfur State and is located in the Darfur region of Sudan, and is 195 kilometres (121 mi) n
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Sudan, officially the Republic of the Sudan, is a country in North-East Africa. It is bordered by Egypt to the north, Libya to the northwest, Chad to the west, the Central African Republic to the southwest, South Sudan to the south, Ethiopia to the southe
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Egypt, officially the Arab Republic of Egypt, is a transcontinental country spanning the northeast corner of Africa and southwest corner of Asia by a land bridge formed by the Sinai Peninsula.
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The United States of America, commonly known as the United States or America, is a country mostly located in central North America, between Canada and Mexico.
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The United Nations is an intergovernmental organization that aims to maintain international peace and security, develop friendly relations among nations, achieve international cooperation, and be a centre for harmonizing the actions of nations.