Widespread international and regional condemnation has erupted following reports of large-scale atrocities allegedly committed by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in El-Fasher, the capital of North Darfur State, after it fell under their control earlier this week. Governments and organizations worldwide are demanding an immediate ceasefire and unfettered humanitarian access to protect thousands of trapped civilians.
Over 2,000 Civilians Executed in Two Days
A joint force allied with the Sudanese army accused the RSF on Tuesday of carrying out “mass executions of more than 2,000 unarmed civilians” on October 26 and 27, most of them women, children, and the elderly, describing the events as “heinous crimes against humanity” that occurred after the army’s withdrawal from the city.
A report by Yale University’s Humanitarian Research Lab, backed by satellite imagery and verified footage, confirmed “mass killings” following the RSF takeover—marking one of the deadliest episodes since war erupted in April 2023.
UN Chief Denounces “Grave Violations”
UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed “deep alarm” over the escalating violence, condemning “serious violations of international humanitarian and human rights law,” including indiscriminate attacks, targeted assaults on civilians, gender-based violence, and ethnically driven atrocities.
In a statement, his spokesperson said Guterres called for “the safe and unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid” and warned that continued foreign interference in the conflict “gravely undermines prospects for peace.”
Arab and Islamic World Condemnations
Strong condemnations also came from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Egypt, Jordan, Turkey, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, the Arab League, and the Muslim World League, all decrying “the horrific violations against civilians” and appealing for an “immediate humanitarian truce.”
The Arab League said it was following developments “with extreme concern” after the army’s withdrawal, noting that reports from the UN and independent outlets indicated “horrifying crimes committed against civilians trapped in El-Fasher.”
It urged a “complete cessation of hostilities,” warning that the continuing violence “threatens Sudan’s unity and stability as well as regional peace.”
Egypt’s Foreign Ministry voiced “grave concern” and called for “all possible measures to enforce an immediate humanitarian truce nationwide,” affirming Cairo’s firm support for Sudan’s unity and territorial integrity.
European Union Calls for Calm
The European Union said it was “deeply concerned” about escalating violations in El-Fasher and urged all sides to de-escalate.
European Commission spokesperson Anwar Al-Anouni emphasized that the EU was “working closely with partners to document every violation to ensure accountability,” asserting that “no party should enjoy impunity.”
African Union and IGAD: No Military Solution
African Union Commission Chairperson Mahamat Ali Youssouf condemned the “atrocities and war crimes” reported in El-Fasher, urging an “immediate end to hostilities and the opening of humanitarian corridors.”
He stressed that “a military solution to Sudan’s crisis is impossible,” calling instead for “an inclusive political and peace process.”
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) likewise voiced concern over “the deteriorating humanitarian situation” and called for “an immediate cessation of hostilities.”
Turkey Joins in Condemnation
Turkey’s Foreign Ministry released a statement strongly condemning “the injustice committed against civilians in the city of El-Fasher.”
Ankara reaffirmed its “unwavering support for Sudan’s unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity,” calling for “an immediate halt to clashes, the protection of civilians, and the establishment of safe humanitarian corridors.”
Endless War and Human Suffering
Since war broke out between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the RSF on April 15, 2023, Sudan has endured one of the gravest humanitarian disasters in its history.
UN and local estimates place the death toll at around 20,000, with over 15 million displaced or in exile. A U.S. academic study puts the actual number of deaths at roughly 130,000.
Army chief and Sovereign Council leader Abdel Fattah al-Burhan insists the military “will not lay down arms” until the RSF is defeated, while the RSF denies accusations of committing atrocities, claiming it is “cleansing the city of enemy remnants.”
As fighting rages on with no political resolution in sight, global pressure is mounting to end the war. Meanwhile, millions of Sudanese civilians—especially in Darfur—remain trapped between the frontlines of a seemingly endless conflict.
