Did Paramilitary Forces Cause the Death of 26 Civilians in Sudan?

Synopsis
In a shocking escalation of violence, paramilitary forces in Sudan have resulted in the deaths of at least 26 civilians across three towns. This tragic event highlights the ongoing conflict between the Rapid Support Forces and the Sudanese Armed Forces, which has already displaced millions. What are the implications of this violence for the region's stability?
Key Takeaways
- 26 civilians killed in RSF attacks.
- Attacks targeted hospitals and markets.
- RSF accused of systematic violence against civilians.
- Conflict has displaced millions since April 2023.
- Urgent need for humanitarian assistance.
Khartoum, May 31 (NationPress) At least 26 civilians lost their lives in a series of assaults carried out by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on three towns in Sudan's western Kordofan region, according to the Sudanese government announcement.
The Sudanese Foreign Ministry stated, "In recent hours, the RSF militia has perpetrated a range of abhorrent acts, intentionally aiming at civilian zones and taking the lives of innocent individuals."
"Today (Friday), the militia attacked Al-Daman Hospital in El-Obeid city, resulting in the death of 16 patients who were under treatment and injuring many more," the ministry elaborated, further noting, "On Wednesday, the militia also assaulted a public market in the town of Al-Khiwai using drones, resulting in the deaths of eight civilians."
Moreover, the RSF targeted a residential area in the town of Al-Dibaibat, South Kordofan, causing the deaths of two civilians, as per the statement.
The ministry characterized the RSF's actions as part of a calculated and systematic strategy aimed at civilians, humanitarian groups, critical infrastructure, and essential services, intending to cause maximum civilian suffering, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
It accused the RSF of bombing World Food Programme warehouses in El-Fasher, the capital of North Darfur State, on Thursday and igniting them, thereby destroying vast amounts of food supplies.
Violent confrontations between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the RSF have escalated throughout the Kordofan region, encompassing North, West, and South Kordofan states.
On Thursday, the RSF asserted control over the towns of Al-Dibaibat in South Kordofan and Al-Khiwai in West Kordofan. The Sudanese army has yet to respond to this claim.
Since April 2023, Sudan has been embroiled in a harrowing conflict between the SAF and the RSF, leading to the deaths of tens of thousands and displacing millions both within the country and beyond its borders.