When a City Turns into a War Zone: The El-Fasher Siege

Sun Sep 06 2026 16:18:41 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Amnesty calls the RSF’s takeover of el-Fasher a crime against humanity, with more than 6,000 dead. Find out what the fight means for the people on the ground.

Sudan’s RSF paramilitaries have been accused of crimes against humanity and ethnic cleansing in the city of el-Fasher, a report says. The siege was one of the bloodiest chapters of the civil war between the army and the RSF, with more than 6,000 people killed in the first days. Amnesty details torture, rape and forced displacement, highlighting the targeting of children and ethnic minorities. The report stresses the need for accountability and an international protective force. Across the continent, activists and soldiers alike are demanding a ceasefire and justice for the survivors.

The Siege of el-Fasher

Overview

Last year, the RSF paramilitaries entered the western city of el-Fasher in Sudan’s Darfur region. The arrival marked a horrific chapter in the ongoing civil war, with the RSF accused of crimes against humanity and ethnic cleansing.

According to Amnesty, the assault involved murder, forced transfer, imprisonment, torture, rape, sexual slavery and mass murder. The UN reported more than 6,000 deaths in just three days.

What it looks like on the ground

Children were deliberately targeted: many were killed, raped, abducted or force‑recruited.

RSF fighters used ethnic slurs like “slave” to attack Zaghawa civilians.

Women, men and children suffered sexual violence and forced sexual slavery.

Hundreds of survivors now walk with crutches or rely on aid for basic care.

Accusations and denials

The RSF has denied the scale of the attacks and claims internal investigations. However, Amnesty has named several RSF commanders and pushed for accountability in international law.

Why it matters for the broader world

The conflict has forced more than 14 million people from their homes and left 28 million hungry. International pressure is rising for the end of the war and protection of civilians.

Community call‑out

If the world is to help, the first step is to raise awareness. Share the facts, support UN‑led humanitarian aid, and push for a ceasefire. The survivors’ stories call for a global response; without it, the city—and the country—will never fully heal.

Image: A woman sits in a line of people beside children, under an urgent sense of hope.