UN Warns of Spiralling Conflict in Sudan After RSF Seizes El-Fasher

Dubai, Nov 4 (AP) The United Nations Secretary-General has issued a grave warning about the escalating situation in Sudan, describing the conflict as “spiralling out of control” after the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) seized control of the Darfur city of el-Fasher.

Speaking at a UN summit in Qatar, Antonio Guterres highlighted the alarming conditions in el-Fasher, urging for an immediate ceasefire in the ongoing two-year conflict, which has become one of the world’s direst humanitarian crises.

“Hundreds of thousands of civilians are trapped by this siege,” Guterres stated. “People are dying of malnutrition, disease, and violence. And we continue to receive reports of violations against international humanitarian law and human rights.”

Guterres further voiced concerns over “credible reports of widespread executions” since the RSF's entrance into the city. UN representatives have highlighted a violent campaign by the RSF, which has reportedly claimed over 450 lives in a hospital and involved ethnically motivated civilian killings and sexual violence.

Despite RSF's denial of committing such atrocities, firsthand accounts from fleeing individuals, online evidence, and satellite imagery reveal a grim picture following their attack. Poor communication conditions in the region add to the challenge of comprehending the full extent of the violence.

The RSF had laid siege to el-Fasher for 18 months, cutting off essential supplies to the city's inhabitants. Last week, the paramilitary group took control of the city.

When questioned about the potential involvement of international peacekeepers in Sudan, Guterres emphasized the necessity of collective international action to halt the hostilities. He asserted, “One thing that is essential to stop the fighting is to make sure that no more weapons come into Sudan.” He also called for accountability mechanisms to address the egregious crimes being committed.

The conflict between the RSF and the Sudanese military has ravaged Sudan since April 2023, resulting in over 40,000 deaths, according to UN statistics. Yet, aid organizations suggest the actual death count could be far higher. The conflict has displaced over 14 million people and spurred outbreaks of disease. Additionally, two regions in war-torn Sudan are facing famine, which threatens to become widespread.

“It is clear that we need a ceasefire in Sudan,” Guterres urged. “We need to stop this carnage that is absolutely intolerable.” (AP) SKS SKS