Civilians desperately trapped in Sudan's El-Fasher, captured by paramilitary group RSF

Key Concepts:

• El Fasher
• Rapid Support Forces (RSF)
• Sudanese Army
• United Nations (UN)
• Humanitarian aid
• Civilians
• Siege
• Ethnically motivated violations and atrocities
• Humanitarian pause
• Safe passage

Control of El Fasher and Humanitarian Concerns

The Sudanese army chief has confirmed the withdrawal of his troops from El Fasher. Fighters from the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have claimed control of the city. This development follows a siege of over 18 months, during which the UN had repeatedly called for the cessation of the siege and for unimpeded access for humanitarian aid.

UN Warnings and Concerns

The United Nations has expressed grave concerns regarding the situation in El Fasher, warning of "ethnically motivated violations and atrocities." Antoan Jera, the UN Deputy Humanitarian Coordinator for Sudan, speaking from Chad, highlighted these concerns. The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights has specifically pointed to reports of young men being killed without proper judgment and restrictions on the population's freedom to leave the city. The primary concern is the protection of civilians, who are described as extremely weak due to the prolonged siege.

Humanitarian Access and Aid

For the past 18 months to two years, civilians in El Fasher have been trapped with very limited access to humanitarian aid. While some Sudanese national organizations, such as the emergency response room and popular kitchen initiatives, have managed to provide assistance, and the World Food Programme and other international organizations have offered support, the aid has been severely limited. The UN has been calling for a humanitarian pause for months to allow for the entry of assistance and for people to leave the city if they wish.

Call for Humanitarian Pause and Safe Passage

The UN is advocating for a humanitarian pause. This pause would serve a dual purpose: enabling the delivery of much-needed humanitarian assistance into the city and facilitating the safe passage of civilians who wish to leave. For those seeking refuge, places like Chad, bordering Sudan, are mentioned as potential destinations where individuals could receive assistance and protection as refugees. The ongoing fighting makes it extremely difficult for people to leave the city currently.

Synthesis/Conclusion:

The fall of El Fasher to the RSF marks a significant escalation in the conflict, exacerbating the already dire humanitarian situation. The UN's warnings of potential atrocities underscore the urgent need for international attention and action. The call for a humanitarian pause is critical to prevent further loss of life, provide essential aid to the trapped population, and allow for the safe evacuation of civilians seeking refuge. The situation highlights the devastating impact of prolonged conflict on civilian populations and the challenges in delivering humanitarian assistance in active war zones.