UN warns of systematic atrocities in Sudan's El-Fasher, urges action

The United Nations has issued an urgent warning about the catastrophic situation in El-Fasher, Sudan, describing the city as engulfed in grief and suffering amid systematic atrocities against civilians. UN Human Rights Representative in Sudan Li Fung declared that brutal attacks have escalated dramatically over the past ten days, creating unprecedented humanitarian suffering.

Systematic Assault on Civilians

In a video statement published on social media platform X, Fung emphasized that the violence represents a deliberate campaign rather than random chaos. "What we are witnessing is not chaos. It is a systematic assault on human life and dignity," she stated, noting that brutal attacks often target specific ethnic groups. The UN official reported that hundreds have been killed, including vulnerable patients seeking safety in hospitals and children in schools.

Widespread Atrocities and Vanished Civilians

The crisis has affected every aspect of civilian life, with Fung detailing that "entire families were cut down as they fled" while "others have simply vanished." She confirmed thousands of detentions, including medical personnel and journalists, and highlighted the "grim reality of sexual violence" as ever-present throughout the city. The situation leaves no safe routes for civilians attempting to escape.

Urgent Calls for International Action

Despite communication disruptions and limited access, the UN Human Rights Office continues documenting violations and advocating for accountability. Fung stressed that "El-Fasher is bleeding and the time to act is now," calling for immediate civilian protection, unhindered humanitarian access, and accountability mechanisms. She warned that those remaining trapped face severe protection risks, particularly the elderly, disabled, and chronically ill.

Background of the Conflict

The warning comes after the Rapid Support Forces paramilitary group seized control of El-Fasher on October 26, with local and international organizations reporting civilian massacres during the takeover. The ongoing conflict between Sudan's army and the RSF, which began on April 15, 2023, has killed thousands and displaced millions despite multiple international mediation attempts.