What's happened
Fighting in Sudan continues with intense clashes in Darfur and Khartoum. RSF drone attacks target Khartoum airport, delaying reopening plans, while in Darfur, RSF besieges El-Fasher, causing mass displacement, civilian casualties, and humanitarian crises. The conflict has killed tens of thousands and displaced millions, worsening the country's humanitarian emergency.
What's behind the headline?
The recent escalation in Sudan's conflict reveals a strategic shift by the RSF, aiming to consolidate control over Darfur by besieging El-Fasher and targeting key infrastructure like Khartoum airport. The drone attacks on Khartoum, blamed on RSF, aim to undermine the military's authority and delay the country's recovery efforts. The siege of El-Fasher, with reports of ethnic targeting and mass atrocities, indicates a potential for further ethnic violence and humanitarian catastrophe. The international community's calls for urgent intervention highlight the risk of a broader regional destabilization if the conflict persists. The conflict's trajectory suggests that unless a ceasefire is brokered, the humanitarian crisis will deepen, with more civilian casualties, displacement, and destruction of vital infrastructure. The ongoing violence underscores the failure of diplomatic efforts and the entrenched political divide, which will likely prolong the suffering unless significant international pressure leads to a resolution.
What the papers say
The articles from AP News, Al Jazeera, and The New Arab collectively depict a grim picture of Sudan's ongoing conflict. AP News reports on the military and RSF clashes, drone attacks, and the delayed reopening of Khartoum airport, emphasizing the strategic and military aspects. Al Jazeera provides detailed accounts of drone strikes, civilian suffering, and the destruction of infrastructure, highlighting the humanitarian toll and the risks of ethnic violence. The New Arab offers a comprehensive overview of the siege of El-Fasher, the humanitarian crisis, and the international calls for urgent action, emphasizing the severity of the situation in Darfur. While all sources agree on the escalation and humanitarian impact, AP focuses more on military developments, whereas Al Jazeera and The New Arab emphasize civilian suffering and international concerns. The contrasting perspectives underscore the multifaceted nature of the conflict, with military, humanitarian, and political dimensions intertwined.
How we got here
Since April 2023, Sudan has been embroiled in a conflict between the military and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), originating from a power struggle after the 2019 uprising. The war has led to widespread violence, displacement, and a severe humanitarian crisis, with Darfur and Khartoum as key battlegrounds. The RSF, linked to former militias, has intensified attacks on civilian and military infrastructure, including drone strikes and sieges, especially in Darfur's El-Fasher, which remains under siege after over a year of conflict.
Go deeper
Common question
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What’s happening in El Fasher right now?
El Fasher, a key city in Sudan’s Darfur region, is currently under intense siege due to ongoing conflict between the RSF and Sudanese military. Recent reports detail shelling, drone strikes, and violence that have left civilians vulnerable and suffering. Many are asking what exactly is happening on the ground, how it affects residents, and what efforts are underway to help. Below, we answer some of the most common questions about the current crisis in El Fasher.
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What Are the Main Causes of Modern Conflicts Like Sudan and the South China Sea?
Understanding the root causes of today's conflicts helps explain why regions like Sudan and the South China Sea are so volatile. These conflicts often stem from complex political, territorial, and resource disputes, compounded by historical tensions and international interests. Curious about what drives these conflicts and how they impact civilians? Keep reading to find out more about the causes, consequences, and ongoing efforts to resolve these crises.
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What Are the Biggest News Stories Today?
Stay updated with the latest global headlines, from ongoing conflicts and geopolitical disputes to cultural trends and emerging stories. Curious about what's shaping the world right now? Below, we answer key questions to help you understand today's most important news events and their broader implications.
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What’s happening in El-Fasher and why is it under siege?
El-Fasher, the last major city in Darfur still under Sudanese army control, is currently facing a severe escalation of violence. The city is under intense attack by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), including drone strikes and artillery shelling, trapping over 260,000 civilians in a prolonged siege. This crisis raises urgent questions about the reasons behind the conflict, the international response, and the risks faced by those caught in the crossfire. Below, we explore the key issues surrounding the siege and what it means for Sudan and the wider region.
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How Do Ongoing Conflicts and Land Rights Battles Impact Global Stability?
Conflicts in Sudan, Colombia, and Scotland reveal complex issues around land disputes, indigenous rights, and geopolitical tensions. These struggles not only affect local communities but also have far-reaching implications for international peace and environmental conservation. Curious about how these conflicts are interconnected and what role global pressure plays? Read on to explore the key themes shaping our world today.
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How Are Global Powers Influencing Regional Disputes Today?
In today's complex geopolitical landscape, major world powers are actively shaping regional conflicts and disputes. From China's assertive claims in the South China Sea to Western responses in Africa and South America, understanding these dynamics is crucial. Below, we explore key questions about how global influence impacts regional stability and conflicts worldwide.
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What Are the Long-Term Effects of Conflicts and Environmental Crises?
Conflicts like the ongoing siege in Sudan and environmental struggles in the Amazon and South China Sea have far-reaching impacts. Understanding these issues helps us grasp how they shape our world and what can be done to address them. Below, we explore key questions about the long-term effects of these crises and what actions can make a difference.
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Why is El-Fasher in Darfur under siege now?
El-Fasher, the last major city in Darfur still under Sudanese army control, is currently facing intense attacks from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The city has been under a prolonged siege for over 500 days, with civilians trapped amid ongoing violence. Many are asking why this escalation is happening now and what it means for the region. Below, we explore the reasons behind the siege, the key players involved, and what can be done to stop the violence.
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What Are the Biggest News Stories Today?
Stay informed with the latest major headlines shaping the world today. From international conflicts to economic tensions and innovative trends, these stories are crucial to understanding current events. Curious about how these events connect or their global impact? Keep reading for comprehensive insights and updates.
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What’s Happening in El-Fasher, Sudan Right Now?
El-Fasher, a key city in Sudan's Darfur region, is currently facing a severe humanitarian crisis due to ongoing violence. Recent fighting has intensified, with reports of missile attacks, hospital bombings, and civilians trapped in a worsening siege. Many wonder what is happening on the ground, how civilians are coping, and what international efforts are underway to stop the conflict. Below, we answer some of the most common questions about this urgent situation.
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What is happening in Sudan's El-Fasher right now?
El-Fasher, the capital of North Darfur in Sudan, is currently under intense siege amid ongoing conflict between the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese army. Recent reports detail artillery and drone strikes that have caused civilian casualties and widespread destruction. Many residents are trapped, facing starvation, violence, and displacement. This page explores the current situation, its impact on civilians, and the broader context of Sudan's ongoing crisis.
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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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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Khartoum or Khartum is the capital of Sudan. With a population of 5,274,321, its metropolitan area is the largest in Sudan, the sixth-largest in Africa, the second-largest in North Africa, and the fourth-largest in the Arab world.
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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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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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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.
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The International Organization for Migration is an intergovernmental organization that provides services and advice concerning migration to governments and migrants, including internally displaced persons, refugees, and migrant workers.
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Khartoum International Airport is the principal airport in Khartoum, the capital of Sudan.