As the Human Rights Council prepares to meet on February 9, evidence mounts linking external support to atrocities in Darfur, while the gum arabic trade becomes a major revenue source for armed actors. On February 9, 2026, the UN Human Rights Council will hold an interactive dialogue on El-Fasher, Sudan, addressing a severe humanitarian crisis. This session, mandated by Human Rights Council Resolution S-38/1 from November 14, 2025, will review the aftermath of El-Fasher’s fall to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The resolution followed reports of mass executions, ethnic-based killings, and systematic sexual violence by RSF and affiliated militias. Around 70,000 to 100,000 civilians may remain in the city, facing a crime scene of burned bodies and abandoned markets. Resolution S-38/1 calls for the halt of hostilities and condemns the RSF’s violence, including ethnic killings, rape, and other crimes. The World Food Programme’s Ross Smith reported the dire conditions, with escapees risking mine-laden roads, and over 106,000 people have fled to Tawila, a massive displacement camp. Testimonies detail RSF atrocities, including executions and sexual violence, notably at the Saudi Maternity Hospital in El-Fasher, where 460 died. The ICC noted potential war crimes, and officials warned of possible mass atrocities. Famine affects El-Fasher and Kadugli, with millions facing acute food insecurity. The UAE’s support for RSF is criticized, with allegations of weapon supplies. The UAE’s involvement has drawn international scrutiny, with claims of smuggling weapons and advanced drones to the RSF. Gum arabic trade has been co-opted by RSF, a key revenue stream. The gum arabic trade, critical to many industries, has become a military shadow economy in Sudan. RSF controls significant production zones, exploiting the trade to fund conflict. Smuggling routes feed into European markets, with EU imports declining but values rising, indicating conflict-driven prices. The global gum arabic market is dominated by French companies Nexira and Alland & Robert, though concerns over ethical sourcing remain. International pressure builds to address the Sudan crisis, emphasizing no military solution and urging cessation of hostilities, rehabilitation, and political dialogue. The international community is urged to ensure trade does not support RSF’s war efforts, with the February 9 session a chance to align words with action against atrocities.
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