The ongoing conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), now entering its third year, has escalated with deadly consequences in North Darfur. Last week, RSF-linked factions launched violent assaults on El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur state, and targeted the Zamzam and Abu Shouk camps that shelter displaced civilians.
According to UN spokesperson Stephanie Tremblay, humanitarian organizations on the ground have reported deeply troubling accounts following what appears to be the seizure of Zamzam camp by armed groups.
Horrifying accounts from survivors describe killings, sexual violence, and the widespread burning of homes. Tremblay stressed that civilians, including humanitarian staff, are being trapped and barred from fleeing the violence. “Civilians, including humanitarian workers, are reportedly being prevented from leaving, and survivors have spoken of killings, sexual violence, and also of the burning of homes,” she said during a press briefing at UN Headquarters in New York.
The conflict has severely hampered humanitarian operations. Access restrictions, a dire shortage of fuel, and a dangerously unstable security environment have disrupted health services and compromised water treatment systems across affected areas.
Further compounding the humanitarian crisis, drone strikes targeting power infrastructure in Khartoum state on Monday left large parts of the Um Badda, Karrari, and Omdurman districts without electricity and clean water.
Tremblay renewed the UN’s call for all involved parties to prioritize civilian protection and permit unhindered access for humanitarian relief efforts. “Once again, we call on all parties to the conflict to protect civilians and to facilitate humanitarian access,” she urged.
She also called for increased international support to ensure life-saving assistance reaches Sudan’s most vulnerable communities. In that context, Tremblay welcomed the London Conference on Sudan, held on Tuesday, and expressed appreciation for the significant funding pledges announced during the event.
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