EL FASHER, Sudan
A deadly battle for control of El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur, has entered its fourth day, raising fears of a full-blown war. The clashes between the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and a combined force of the Sudanese army and allied armed movements have resulted in a growing number of civilian casualties.
The RSF launched a large-scale
offensive, deploying thousands of fighters from across Darfur in an attempt to
capture El Fasher. The Sudanese army and its allies responded by reinforcing
their presence within the city.
Eyewitnesses reported to
“Sudan Tribune” that the RSF bombarded densely populated areas in the south and
west of the city with artillery fire, causing significant civilian casualties
and widespread destruction of homes.
A military official from the
joint forces claimed they repelled a “treacherous attack” by the RSF,
inflicting heavy losses on them and capturing several military vehicles. He
further alleged that the RSF used foreign mercenaries in the assault.
In contrast, an RSF
spokesperson countered that their forces successfully defended their positions
from an attack by “mercenary movements and coup forces.” They claimed capturing
military vehicles and inflicting significant casualties on their attackers.
They also accused the army of war crimes for shelling civilian areas.
Minni Minawi, head of the
Sudan Liberation Movement and Governor of Darfur, reacted by announcing a
general mobilization to defend El Fasher and its citizens. He accused the RSF
of mobilizing fighters and mercenaries to plunder the city and urged residents
to protect their lives and property.
Minawi further condemned the
RSF’s actions, including shelling civilian areas and blocking aid deliveries,
calling them “criminal” acts.
The situation in El Fasher
remains highly volatile, with both sides offering conflicting narratives. The
heavy fighting and disregard for civilian life raise serious concerns about a
potential escalation into a wider conflict.
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