What's happened
Fighting in Sudan's el-Fasher has led to mass killings, sexual violence, and a humanitarian crisis. Leaders call for an immediate ceasefire as thousands are displaced and civilians face famine-like conditions. Reports indicate widespread atrocities committed by the Rapid Support Forces, with the situation deteriorating rapidly.
What's behind the headline?
The situation in Sudan exemplifies the failure of international diplomacy to contain a brutal conflict. The RSF's reported atrocities, including mass executions and sexual violence, highlight the severity of war crimes committed with limited accountability. The international community's calls for ceasefire and peacekeeping are urgent but face obstacles due to ongoing violence and regional instability. The conflict's escalation risks further destabilizing the region and worsening humanitarian suffering. The lack of effective intervention suggests that diplomatic and humanitarian efforts must be intensified, with a focus on stopping the violence and providing aid to millions trapped in famine-like conditions. The situation underscores the importance of accountability mechanisms and the potential role of peacekeepers, though political complexities remain significant.
What the papers say
The articles from NY Post, AP News, The Independent, and The Times of Israel collectively emphasize the severity of the crisis, with consistent reports of atrocities by the RSF, including mass killings and sexual violence. The NY Post highlights the recent seizure of el-Fasher and testimonies from fleeing civilians, while AP News and The Independent stress the international calls for ceasefire and accountability. The Times of Israel underscores the global concern, quoting UK and German officials condemning the violence and calling for urgent action. Divergences include the tone of attribution—some sources emphasize RSF denial of atrocities, while others focus on documented evidence of mass violence. Overall, the consensus underscores a rapidly deteriorating humanitarian crisis with limited effective international response so far.
How we got here
The conflict in Sudan began in April 2023 between the RSF and the Sudanese military, escalating into a full-scale civil war. The RSF, a powerful paramilitary group, has besieged key regions, including el-Fasher, cutting off supplies and committing alleged atrocities. The war has caused over 40,000 deaths, displaced millions, and triggered famine and disease outbreaks. International efforts have focused on ceasefire calls and accountability, but violence persists.
Go deeper
Common question
-
What Is Happening in Darfur Right Now?
The conflict in Darfur has escalated dramatically, with recent clashes leading to mass killings, sexual violence, and a worsening humanitarian crisis. International leaders are calling for urgent action, but many are still wondering what exactly is happening on the ground and how it affects civilians. Below, we answer some of the most pressing questions about the current situation in Darfur and what it means for the region and the world.
-
What’s Happening in Darfur and How Can the World Help?
The conflict in Darfur has escalated dramatically, leading to widespread violence, humanitarian crises, and international concern. Many people are asking what the latest reports reveal, why violence is increasing now, and what actions are being taken globally. Here, we answer the most common questions about the Darfur crisis and explore how aid efforts can reach those most in need.
-
What Are the Major Global Conflicts and Risks Right Now?
With tensions rising worldwide, understanding the biggest conflicts and risks is more important than ever. From military threats to diplomatic crises, these issues shape our global landscape. Below, we explore the key questions about current conflicts, how they impact stability, and what to watch for in the coming weeks.
-
What’s Causing the Fighting in Sudan’s El-Fasher?
The recent violence in Sudan’s El-Fasher has shocked the world. Mass killings, sexual violence, and a humanitarian crisis are unfolding as the conflict intensifies. Many wonder what’s behind this violence and what it means for civilians caught in the crossfire. Below, we explore the causes of the fighting, its impact on civilians, and what international leaders are doing to help.
-
What’s Next for Sudan? Possible Outcomes and International Involvement
The crisis in Sudan continues to escalate, with reports of atrocities, displacement, and a worsening humanitarian situation. Many are asking what could happen next and how the international community might respond. Below, we explore the potential future scenarios, the role of neighboring countries and global powers, and what civilians can expect in the coming weeks.
-
What Is the Current Humanitarian Crisis in Sudan?
Sudan is facing a severe humanitarian crisis due to ongoing conflict, especially in regions like el-Fasher. Civilians are suffering from violence, displacement, and shortages of basic needs. Many wonder what the situation looks like now, how aid efforts are progressing, and what can be done to help. Below, we answer some of the most common questions about this urgent crisis.
-
How Are Global Leaders Responding to the Sudan Crisis and U.S. Military Movements?
The ongoing conflict in Sudan has drawn international concern, with reports of atrocities and a worsening humanitarian crisis. Meanwhile, the extension of the U.S. National Guard in Washington D.C. has sparked debate over federal authority and local rights. This page explores how world leaders are reacting to these critical events, what actions are being taken, and what it all means for global stability. Read on to find answers to your most pressing questions about these unfolding stories.
More on these topics
-
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
-
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
-
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.
-
Yvette Cooper (born 20 March 1969) is a British politician who has served as Foreign Secretary since September 2025, having previously served as Home Secretary from 2024 to 2025. A member of the Labour Party, Cooper has been Member of Parliament (MP)...
-
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.
-
Johann David Wadephul is a German politician of the Christian Democratic Union who has been a member of the German Parliament since 2009.
-
Ayman Safadi (Arabic: أيمن الصفدي ʾAyman Aṣ-ṣafadī; born 15 January 1962) is a Jordanian politician who is Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs.
Safadi is a member of the Jordanian Druze community.
-
Jordan, officially the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, is an Arab country in Western Asia, on the East Bank of the Jordan River. Jordan is bordered by Saudi Arabia to the south and the east, Iraq to the north-east, Syria to the north and Israel and Palestine
-
The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, commonly known as the United Kingdom or Britain, is a sovereign country located off the northwestern coast of the European mainland.
-
Germany, officially the Federal Republic of Germany, is a country in Central and Western Europe. Covering an area of 357,022 square kilometres, it lies between the Baltic and North seas to the north, and the Alps to the south.