What's happened
The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) intensified their offensive in el-Fasher, North Darfur, resulting in numerous casualties and displacements. This attack follows a series of violent incidents, including assaults on displaced persons' camps, raising concerns about the ongoing civil war's impact on Sudan's stability.
What's behind the headline?
Current Situation
The RSF's recent offensive in el-Fasher marks a critical escalation in the ongoing conflict, as they aim to consolidate control over Darfur. The city, home to over a million displaced individuals, has become a focal point for violence as the RSF seeks to expand its territorial influence.
Implications for Sudan
- Humanitarian Crisis: The attacks have exacerbated an already dire humanitarian situation, with aid access severely restricted. The U.N. reports that up to 400,000 people have fled the Zamzam camp, which has become inaccessible to aid workers.
- Political Ramifications: Gen. Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo's declaration of a parallel government raises alarms about Sudan's potential fragmentation. This move, coupled with military setbacks in urban areas, suggests a shift towards a more entrenched conflict reminiscent of Libya's prolonged instability.
- International Response: The international community, including the U.S., has condemned the RSF's actions, emphasizing the need for a unified Sudan. However, the RSF's establishment of a government may complicate diplomatic efforts aimed at restoring peace.
Future Outlook
The situation in Sudan is precarious, with the potential for further violence and humanitarian crises. The RSF's actions will likely provoke stronger international condemnation and could lead to increased sanctions, but the immediate impact on the ground remains devastating for civilians caught in the crossfire.
What the papers say
According to AP News, the RSF's offensive on el-Fasher resulted in numerous casualties, with reports indicating that the city is now under siege. The RSF has been attempting to seize control of el-Fasher for over a year, intensifying attacks as they regroup in Darfur after losing ground in Khartoum. The Independent highlights Gen. Dagalo's announcement of a 'Government of Peace and Unity,' which has raised concerns about Sudan's potential partition. The New York Times notes that the RSF's rhetoric of inclusivity contrasts sharply with their violent actions, as they continue to attack displaced persons' camps, leading to significant humanitarian crises. This juxtaposition underscores the complexity of the conflict and the dire situation facing civilians in Sudan.
How we got here
Sudan has been embroiled in civil war since April 2023, following escalating tensions between the military and the RSF. The conflict has led to significant loss of life and displacement, with over 24,000 reported dead and millions forced from their homes. The RSF, emerging from the Janjaweed militias, has been accused of severe human rights violations.
Go deeper
- What are the implications of the RSF's new government?
- How is the international community responding to the conflict?
- What is the current humanitarian situation in Darfur?
Common question
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What is the current situation in Darfur amid the RSF Offensive?
The ongoing conflict in Darfur has escalated dramatically with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) intensifying their offensive in el-Fasher. This situation raises urgent questions about the humanitarian impact on civilians and the broader implications for Sudan's stability. Below, we explore key questions surrounding this crisis.
More on these topics
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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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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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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.