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 stated he had approved the withdrawal in response to the 'systematic destruction and killing of civilians.' He remarked that he had agreed with local leaders to 'leave and go to a safe place to protect the remaining citizens and the rest of the city from destruction.' The UN has raised the alarm over reports of atrocities committed by the RSF in recent days and has called for safe passage for trapped civilians. The RSF, however, has denied these accusations. The fall of el-Fasher could signify a pivotal change in Sudan's civil war, which has already claimed tens of thousands of lives and displaced nearly 12 million since April 2023. This capture gives the RSF control over all five state capitals in Darfur, solidifying its parallel administration. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed grave concern over the situation, condemning reported violations of international humanitarian law. The dire humanitarian situation in el-Fasher and the surrounding North Darfur region has resulted in severe malnutrition, disease, and violence on a daily basis. The situation demands urgent international attention and action to prevent further atrocities.
Sudan's Military Withdraws from El-Fasher as RSF Claims Control
Sudan's Military Withdraws from El-Fasher as RSF Claims Control
In a dramatic turn of events, Sudan's army has left the city of El-Fasher amid escalating violence by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), raising concerns for local civilians.
Sudan's military has confirmed its withdrawal from El-Fasher, the last stronghold in the west, following an 18-month siege by the Rapid Support Forces. General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan cited the need to protect civilians amidst rising violence and humanitarian crises, prompting fears of continued atrocities in the region. The RSF's capture of the city marks a significant shift in the ongoing civil war, which has led to severe suffering, malnutrition, and displacement of nearly 12 million people since 2023.
