Is Violence Escalating in Sudan's North Darfur?
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Synopsis
As violence escalates in Sudan's North Darfur, the UN raises urgent alarms following the takeover of El Fasher by the Rapid Support Forces. With reports of civilian casualties and targeted attacks on healthcare, the international community is called upon to intervene. What does this mean for the region's stability?
Key Takeaways
- Escalating violence in North Darfur raises humanitarian concerns.
- UN reports indicate numerous civilian casualties.
- The situation for healthcare facilities is dire, with attacks reported.
- Calls for immediate cessation of hostilities have been made.
- International accountability for violations is crucial.
United Nations, Nov 5 (NationPress) Escalating violence is being observed across Sudan's North Darfur state, particularly following the seizure of the capital, El Fasher, by the Rapid Support Forces, according to UN humanitarian sources.
Numerous air and drone strikes were reported in areas including El Fasher, Tina, and Wana Mountain on Sunday, as indicated by the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).
While local reports have mentioned civilian casualties, OCHA has stated that it cannot confirm these claims due to restricted access and challenges in communication with those in affected regions.
On Monday, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the director-general of the World Health Organization, denounced ongoing assaults on healthcare facilities in Sudan. The Kernoi Pediatric and Maternity Hospital in North Darfur was targeted, leading to at least four fatalities and three injuries. He emphasized that such attacks on healthcare must cease globally.
Despite the perilous operating conditions, OCHA noted that the United Nations and its partners are continuing to provide life-saving assistance wherever access allows.
They are enhancing therapeutic feeding and vitamin supplementation initiatives. Additionally, efforts are underway to ensure safe deliveries and emergency care for pregnant women via mobile clinics.
In Sudan's Kordofan region, the security scenario is also deteriorating. Local reports indicate that at least 40 civilians lost their lives and many were injured during an assault on a funeral gathering in El Obeid, the capital of North Kordofan state, according to the Xinhua news agency.
Once again, OCHA has urged for an immediate halt to hostilities and called on all parties to safeguard civilians and adhere to international humanitarian law.
Previously, on October 30, the UN Security Council expressed deep concern regarding the rising violence in and around El Fasher in North Darfur.
In a statement, council members condemned the attack by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on El Fasher and its catastrophic consequences for the civilian population.
They also denounced reported atrocities committed by the RSF against civilians, which include summary executions and arbitrary detentions. They expressed serious concern over the increased risk of large-scale atrocities, including those motivated by ethnicity.
The council members called for accountability for all violators and demanded that all conflicting parties protect civilians, comply with their international law obligations, including humanitarian law, and facilitate safe and unimpeded humanitarian access.
Point of View
I observe that the ongoing situation in Sudan's North Darfur demands urgent attention. The international community must act decisively to protect civilians and uphold humanitarian law. It is essential for all parties involved to prioritize peace and stability in the region.
NationPress
09/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current situation in North Darfur?
The situation in North Darfur is deteriorating, with increasing violence following the takeover of El Fasher by the Rapid Support Forces. Reports of civilian casualties and attacks on healthcare facilities raise urgent humanitarian concerns.
What actions is the UN taking in response to the violence?
The United Nations is continuing to provide life-saving assistance despite the challenging conditions and is calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities and protection for civilians.
How can the international community help?
The international community can help by advocating for humanitarian access, holding violators accountable, and providing support to those affected by the conflict.
