UN Calls for Immediate Halt to Escalating Conflict in Sudan's Al-Fashir

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is 'gravely alarmed' by reports of a full-scale assault on Sudan's al-Fashir by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Guterres urged RSF leader to halt the offensive, warning of broader conflict in Darfur. The conflict's escalation will be discussed in an upcoming meeting between President Biden and UAE President.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed grave concern over a reported full-scale assault on the Sudanese city of al-Fashir by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). He urged the RSF leader to halt the offensive immediately.

Guterres warned that further escalation could spread conflict throughout Sudan's western Darfur region. The conflict, which began in April last year between the Sudanese army and RSF, has already triggered the world's largest displacement crisis.

U.S. national security adviser Jake Sullivan stated that the ongoing conflict will be discussed during President Joe Biden's upcoming meeting with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Accusations of the UAE arming the RSF have complicated the situation. The U.N. Security Council has called for an immediate end to the siege of al-Fashir and the withdrawal of all fighters threatening civilian safety.

(With inputs from agencies.)