Geneva – The ongoing conflict and siege in El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur in western Sudan, have claimed 782 lives and left over 1,143 people injured since May 2024. The warring factions have used homes and markets as battlegrounds, causing civilians to be caught in the crossfire of gunfire and bombings. Many people have lost their lives near their homes, markets, and hospitals. Thousands of people remain trapped in the city, with no guaranteed safe evacuation. The situation is becoming increasingly dire due to indiscriminate attacks.
The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) reported on this tragic situation, noting that the fighting in residential areas has intensified, including attacks on markets and looting. High Commissioner Volker Turk issued a statement calling for an end to the siege of El Fasher and an immediate halt to attacks on civilian infrastructure. He urged the warring parties to comply with international legal obligations and ensure the safety of civilians. Turk also appealed to the international community for urgent intervention to prevent further deterioration of the situation.
The conflict between the Sudanese military and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has been ongoing for more than 18 months, leading to a severe humanitarian crisis.