What's happened
The ongoing civil war in Sudan has intensified, with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) accused of mass killings and attacks on civilians. Recent reports indicate over 542 civilian deaths in Darfur in three weeks, with humanitarian conditions worsening. The conflict, which began in April 2023, has displaced millions and created a severe humanitarian crisis.
What's behind the headline?
Humanitarian Crisis
The situation in Sudan is dire, with the RSF's actions leading to significant civilian casualties and displacement. The UN has described the conflict as the world's worst humanitarian crisis, with over 13 million people displaced and famine conditions worsening.
Political Implications
The RSF's recent offensives, particularly in Darfur, indicate a strategic push to consolidate power in the region. This escalation raises concerns about the potential for further ethnic violence and the fragmentation of Sudan into rival territories controlled by military factions.
International Response
The international community's response has been criticized as inadequate, with calls for urgent humanitarian access and accountability for war crimes. The ongoing violence and humanitarian needs highlight the necessity for a coordinated global response to prevent further atrocities.
What the papers say
According to the New York Times, the RSF's recent attacks have resulted in at least 542 civilian deaths in Darfur, with the UN's Volker Türk stating, 'The horror unfolding in Sudan knows no bounds.' In contrast, Al Jazeera emphasizes the RSF's control over most of Darfur and the dire humanitarian conditions, noting that 'the humanitarian community is facing critical and intensifying operational challenges.' The New Arab reports on specific incidents, including the massacre of civilians in Al Nahud, highlighting the ethnic basis of the violence. This divergence in focus among sources illustrates the multifaceted nature of the crisis, with some emphasizing immediate humanitarian needs while others highlight the broader political implications.
How we got here
The civil war in Sudan erupted in April 2023, following a power struggle between army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Daglo. The conflict has led to widespread violence, ethnic cleansing, and a humanitarian disaster, with millions displaced and famine declared in several regions.
Go deeper
- What are the humanitarian conditions like in Sudan now?
- How has the international community responded to the crisis?
- What are the implications of the RSF's actions for Sudan's future?
Common question
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What is the current situation in the Darfur crisis?
The Darfur crisis has escalated dramatically, with reports of violence and humanitarian needs reaching alarming levels. As of April 2025, the situation in North Darfur, particularly in El-Fashir, has drawn international attention due to the rising death toll and displacement of civilians. This page addresses key questions surrounding the crisis, including the latest developments, the response from the UN, and the urgent humanitarian aid required for those affected.
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What are the latest developments in the Darfur crisis?
The Darfur crisis has escalated dramatically, with recent reports highlighting severe violence and humanitarian challenges. As the situation unfolds, many are left wondering about the implications for civilians and the international response. Below, we address key questions surrounding this urgent humanitarian issue.
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What is the Current Situation in Sudan's Civil War?
The civil war in Sudan has escalated dramatically, particularly in the Darfur region, leading to a severe humanitarian crisis. With millions displaced and countless lives lost, understanding the latest developments is crucial. Below are some common questions regarding the ongoing conflict and its implications.
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What is the Current Situation in Sudan's Civil War?
Sudan's civil war has escalated dramatically, particularly in the Darfur region, leading to a severe humanitarian crisis. With ongoing violence and mass killings, many are left wondering about the latest developments and the impact on civilians. Here are some common questions regarding the situation in Sudan and the international response.
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What are the latest developments in Sudan's civil war?
Sudan's civil war has escalated dramatically, leading to a severe humanitarian crisis. With recent reports of massacres and widespread violence, many are seeking to understand the current situation and its implications for civilians. Below are some common questions regarding the ongoing conflict and its impact.
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What are the causes and consequences of Sudan's ongoing civil war?
Sudan's civil war, which erupted in April 2023, has led to devastating humanitarian crises and widespread violence. Understanding the root causes and the current situation is crucial for grasping the ongoing conflict's implications. Below are some common questions regarding the civil war in Sudan, its humanitarian impact, and international responses.
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.
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Lt. Gen. Abdel Fattah Abdelrahman al-Burhan is a Sudanese politician and Sudanese Army general who is currently serving as Chairman of the Sovereignty Council of Sudan, the country's collective transitional head of state.
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The Sudanese Armed Forces are the military forces of the Republic of the Sudan. During the 39-month transition to democracy that started in September 2019, the August 2019 Draft Constitutional Declaration defines the Supreme Commander of the Sudanese Arme
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Omdurman (Arabic: أم درمان, romanized: Umm Durmān) is a major city in Sudan. It is the second most populous city in the country, located in the State of Khartoum. Omdurman lies on the west bank of the River Nile, opposite and northwest of the capi
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General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, generally referred to as Hemetti, Hemedti, Hemeti or Hemitte, is a Janjaweed from the Rizeigat tribe in Darfur, who was the Deputy head of the Transitional Military Council following the 2019 Sudanese coup d'état.
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Darfur is a region of western Sudan. Dār is an Arabic word meaning "home [of]" – the region was named Dardaju while ruled by the Daju, who migrated from Meroë c. 350 AD, and it was renamed Dartunjur when the Tunjur ruled the area.