Thousands Flee to Overcrowded Camps After RSF Captures El-Fasher

Following the Rapid Support Forces' (RSF) capture of El-Fasher in Sudan's Darfur region on October 26, tens of thousands have fled to overcrowded camps, facing dire humanitarian conditions. The RSF's takeover, after an 18-month siege, has led to reports of mass atrocities, including killings and sexual assaults.

The International Organization for Migration estimates that around 82,000 people have fled El-Fasher and surrounding areas as of November 4, with many seeking refuge in Tawila, approximately 70 kilometers away. This area is already overwhelmed with displaced individuals from previous conflicts, and resources are severely strained.

U.N. Human Rights Chief Volker Türk expressed deep concern for those still trapped in El-Fasher, stating,

"Today, traumatized civilians are still trapped inside el-Fasher and are being prevented from leaving. I fear that the abominable atrocities such as summary executions, rape and ethnically motivated violence are continuing within the city. And for those who manage to flee, the violence does not end, as the exit routes themselves have been the scenes of unimaginable cruelty."

The RSF and the Sudanese army have been engaged in conflict since April 2023, resulting in over 40,000 deaths and displacing more than 14 million people. The recent escalation in El-Fasher has intensified the humanitarian crisis, with aid organizations struggling to provide assistance due to limited access and ongoing violence.

In response to international pressure, the RSF has agreed to a U.S.-backed proposal for a humanitarian ceasefire, expressing readiness to engage in talks for a complete cessation of hostilities. However, previous ceasefire agreements have failed to hold, and the Sudanese army has yet to officially respond to the latest proposal.