In brief
Following an 18-month siege, the Sudanese military has retreated from El-Fasher, the last major stronghold in western Sudan, to prevent further destruction and civilian casualties as paramilitary group RSF declares control. The UN expresses grave concerns over humanitarian violations amidst rising violence against civilians, while the RSF denies these claims. This development is seen as a significant shift in the civil war that has already led to tens of thousands of deaths and mass displacements since 2023.
Sudan's military chief has confirmed the army's withdrawal from its last western stronghold of el-Fasher after the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) declared control of the city.
In a televised address, Gen Abdel Fattah al-Burhan said he had approved the withdrawal in response to the systematic destruction and killing of civilians. He emphasized the decision was made to protect remaining citizens and prevent further damage to the city.
The UN has raised alarms over reported atrocities committed by the RSF in recent days and has called for safe passage for trapped civilians. The RSF has denied accusations of harming civilians.
The fall of el-Fasher may represent a crucial turning point in Sudan's civil war, which has tragically claimed tens of thousands of lives and displaced nearly 12 million people since April 2023. Control of the city now gives the RSF dominance over all Darfur state capitals, further establishing its parallel administration.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed grave concern over the deteriorating situation, condemning violations of international humanitarian law and noting the dire humanitarian crisis marked by malnutrition, disease, and constant violence.
In his speech, Gen Burhan criticized the international community's inaction regarding the atrocities taking place and reiterated his commitment to reclaiming the territory impacted by the conflict from what he termed traitors.
El-Fasher's military siege and subsequent surrender underscore the prolonged suffering in the broader North Darfur region, with continued international calls for accountability and preventive measures against further atrocities.
