The town of El Fasher, which was overrun by paramilitary fighters in October, is facing a dire humanitarian crisis, with essential supplies for survival completely obliterated, according to UN humanitarians. Ross Smith, Director of Emergency Preparedness and Response for the World Food Programme (WFP), described the current conditions in El Fasher as “beyond horrific”, with an estimated 70 to 100,000 people potentially trapped inside the city.
The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces fighters, who have been engaged in a conflict with the Sudanese army since April 2023, overran El Fasher, the regional capital of North Darfur, after a 500-day siege. The siege had already reduced residents to eating peanut shells and animal feed, with satellite footage showing evidence of mass killings of civilians and executions based on ethnicity.
In addition to the dire situation in El Fasher, the UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed alarm over reports of a deadly drone strike in South Darfur State that killed at least 30 civilians and injured many others. Guterres condemned all attacks on civilians and called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a resumption of talks. He also urged countries with influence over combatants to compel an immediate halt to the fighting and stop the flow of arms.
Securing access for aid teams in El Fasher remains a top priority for humanitarian agencies, as network blackouts have hindered communication with those still trapped in the city. Survivors who have managed to flee El Fasher have faced dangerous conditions, with roads littered with mines and unexploded ordnance. Many have sought shelter in Tawila, which has transformed into a massive displacement settlement for over 650,000 people, equivalent to the size of Luxembourg. Others have sought safety in Ad Dabbah in Northern State.
Efforts are underway to negotiate access into El Fasher with the Rapid Support Forces, with an agreement in principle for a set of minimum conditions to enter the city. This will allow for initial assessments and reconnaissance to assess the urgent needs of those still trapped inside. After more than a year and a half under siege, the essentials for survival in El Fasher have been completely obliterated, making the need for humanitarian assistance critical.
The UN and its partners continue to push for access to provide aid to those in need and to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis in El Fasher and other affected areas in Sudan. The international community must come together to support efforts to end the violence, provide assistance to those affected, and work towards a lasting peace in the region.
