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UN Says Over 400 Civilians May Have Died in Recent Darfur Attacks
New Wave of Violence in Sudan’s Darfur Region :
The United Nations says more than 400 people may have been killed in recent attacks in Sudan’s Darfur region. The deaths were reportedly caused by intense assaults from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group fighting against the Sudanese army.
Last week, the RSF launched ground and air attacks on refugee camps near El-Fasher, the last major city in Darfur still under army control. The camps—Zamzam and Abu Shouk—shelter more than 700,000 displaced people who are already facing extreme hunger and shortages of aid.
UN Verifies Dozens of Deaths, Warns Toll Could Be Higher
Between Thursday and Saturday alone, the UN confirmed at least 148 civilian deaths. However, UN spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani told the BBC that the actual death toll is likely much higher, as their team is still verifying the full extent of the violence.
“Credible sources have reported over 400 people killed,” she said, adding that this number does not include casualties from attacks that happened on Sunday.
Aid Workers Among the Dead
At least nine humanitarian aid workers are believed to be among those killed. The UN has called the violence a clear violation of human rights and a threat to one of the world’s largest humanitarian emergencies.
RSF Denies Responsibility, Blames Army
The RSF has denied targeting civilians. In a statement released Saturday, the group claimed the scenes of violence were staged to damage their reputation. On Sunday, they announced they had successfully taken control of Zamzam Camp, accusing the Sudanese army of using the site as a military base and using civilians as “human shields.”
El-Fasher Under Siege for Over a Year
El-Fasher has been under siege by the RSF for over a year. It is the last major stronghold in Darfur still held by the army. If it falls, the RSF will have full control over the region.
The civil war between the Sudanese army and the RSF began in April 2023 and has already forced millions of people to flee their homes. The conflict is approaching its third year, with no signs of peace in sight.
International Community Calls for Peace
UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk urged both sides to renew efforts toward ending the conflict. “This violence must stop,” he said. “All parties must return to the negotiation table and work for peace.”
Meanwhile, senior global leaders will meet in London on Tuesday to mark the second anniversary of the war. The UK, African Union, and European Union are co-hosting the conference to discuss humanitarian aid and a possible roadmap to peace.
UK Announces Major Aid Package
Ahead of the talks, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy announced a new £120 million package for food, water, and emergency aid in Sudan. “The stability of Sudan is important not just for Africa, but for global security,” Lammy said.
