Sudanese Paramilitary Forces Capture Key Military Base in El-Fasher

Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have taken control of the 6th Infantry Division headquarters in El-Fasher, the capital of North Darfur state, marking a significant development in the ongoing conflict.

The RSF announced the capture on Sunday, stating they had "extended control over the city of El-Fasher from the grip of mercenaries and militias," referring to the Sudanese army. The Sudanese military has not confirmed the loss of the base, but military officials indicated that troops vacated the headquarters under heavy RSF shelling and artillery, retreating to another defensive position.

El-Fasher has been under siege by the RSF since April 2024. The city's fall could signify a turning point in the conflict, potentially leading to further territorial divisions within Sudan.

The humanitarian situation in El-Fasher is dire. The Sudan Doctor Network described the RSF attack as a "heinous massacre," reporting dozens of civilian deaths and the destruction of health infrastructure. The Darfur Network for Human Rights reported that the RSF detained over 1,000 civilians, describing it as a "systematic targeting of civilians, arbitrary detentions and potential acts amounting to war crimes."

Tom Fletcher, UN Emergency Relief Coordinator, expressed "deep alarm" at reports of civilian casualties and forced displacement in El-Fasher. He called for "safe, rapid and unimpeded humanitarian access" to assist the trapped population.

The conflict between the Sudanese military and the RSF began in April 2023, resulting in tens of thousands of deaths and displacing millions. The RSF, originating from the Janjaweed militias, has been accused of committing atrocities, including ethnically motivated killings and rape. The International Criminal Court is investigating alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity in the region.