Grave fears for civilians after Sudanese paramilitary claims capture of El Fasher

"Fears are growing for hundreds of thousands of civilians trapped in El Fasher, Sudan, after the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces said it had captured the city, which it has been besieging for more than a year in the country's civil war. The group said on Sunday that it had seized control of the army's main base in the city in Darfur, where famine was declared in a displacement camp last year."

"The Popular Resistance, a local pro-army militia, responded on Sunday that the army was in more fortified positions and that residents were still resisting in the face of terrorist militias. The UN's humanitarian chief, Tom Fletcher, said he was deeply alarmed by reports of fighters pushing further into the city and cutting off escape routes, calling for an immediate ceasefire, access for humanitarian aid and safe passage for civilians who wanted to leave. Map of El Fasher Map of El Fasher However, the RSF said it was committed to providing safe corridors for all those who wish to move to other locations, as well as the necessary protection for all those in the city."

Rapid Support Forces claimed capture of El Fasher after seizing the army's main base in Darfur, where famine was declared in a displacement camp last year. The group said it had extended control over the city from the grip of mercenaries and militias. The Popular Resistance said the army remained in fortified positions and residents continued to resist. The UN humanitarian chief expressed alarm at reports of fighters cutting off escape routes and demanded an immediate ceasefire, humanitarian access and safe civilian passage. The RSF pledged safe corridors and protection. The siege began in May 2024, displacing hundreds of thousands; the UN reported more than 600,000 displaced and 260,000 still trapped and cut off from aid.

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