Crisis in Darfur: New Wave of Violence and Humanitarian Challenges

Recent developments in Darfur see the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces capturing the city of al-Fashir, causing civilians to flee amid reports of violence and humanitarian crises. The takeover, following an 18-month siege, raises fears of ethnic violence and worsens the ongoing humanitarian situation in the region.

The city of al-Fashir in Darfur has been captured by Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), creating a dire humanitarian crisis. Eyewitnesses, including Ikram Abdelhameed, describe violence against men attempting to flee and a desperate plight for civilians amid an ongoing power struggle.

Abdelhameed's account provides a rare glimpse into the RSF's actions, corroborated by satellite images and unverified social media sources. Ethnically motivated violence is feared, with aid groups issuing warnings after the RSF, accused of past atrocities, seized control. The U.N. confirms this as the world's most severe humanitarian crisis.

Reports indicate Abdelhameed's grandson, suffering malnutrition, was among those escaping to Tawila. Medical assessments by Médecins Sans Frontières reveal high malnutrition rates among displaced children. The situation is exacerbated by the city's devastation, where ongoing violence and famine are rampant.

(With inputs from agencies.)