Tragic Assault: RSF Shelling Claims 35 Innocent Lives in Residential Areas

In recent developments, the situation in El-Fasher has escalated as the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) launched a devastating artillery attack, leading to significant casualties and raising concerns over Sudan’s humanitarian crisis. The ongoing conflict between the RSF and the Sudanese army has resulted in dire consequences for civilians and the stability of the region.

According to a statement from the army’s 6th Infantry Division stationed in El-Fasher, the RSF initiated “indiscriminate and scattered artillery shelling” on Thursday, targeting densely populated areas throughout the city. The consequences of this bombardment were catastrophic, with reports indicating that:

• 35 individuals died, including vulnerable groups such as women, children, and the elderly.
• At least 40 others sustained severe injuries and were promptly transferred to local hospitals for urgent medical care.

The military also reported successfully repelling a “failed RSF ground assault” on the northeastern outskirts of the city, indicating ongoing clashes in the region. The army’s statement highlighted significant losses incurred by the RSF, including:

• 80 RSF fighters reportedly killed.
• 10 armed vehicles destroyed.
• Heavy overall losses inflicted on the RSF forces.

As of now, the RSF has not publicly commented on the military’s allegations regarding the recent clashes. The city of El-Fasher has become a focal point of violence between the Sudanese army and the RSF since May 2024, despite numerous international warnings about the escalating risks of conflict in a city that serves as a vital hub for humanitarian operations across all five Darfur states.

Earlier in the week, the RSF asserted that it had taken control of the Zamzam refugee camp in El-Fasher following confrontations with army forces. This takeover has compounded the humanitarian issues, with reports indicating that:

• At least 400 civilians have lost their lives due to the ongoing fighting.
• Nearly 400,000 individuals have been displaced as a result of the conflict, according to UN figures.

The conflict, which has been ongoing since April 15, 2023, has resulted in a fierce struggle for control between the RSF and the Sudanese army, leading to one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises. The United Nations and local authorities report that:

• Over 20,000 people have been killed since the beginning of the conflict.
• Approximately 15 million individuals have been displaced across the country.

However, research conducted by US scholars presents an even grimmer picture, estimating the death toll to be around 130,000. In recent weeks, government forces have reportedly regained significant territory from the RSF, indicating a potential shift in the balance of power within the region.

The ongoing violence in El-Fasher and the surrounding areas highlights the urgent need for humanitarian assistance and intervention. With the situation continuing to deteriorate, the international community must act swiftly to address the escalating crisis and provide support to those affected by the conflict.

In conclusion, the recent artillery attacks and the ongoing clashes between the RSF and the Sudanese army underscore the urgent need for a resolution to the conflict in Sudan. The humanitarian crisis resulting from this violence requires immediate attention and action from both local and international bodies to ensure the safety and well-being of the affected populations.