The United Nations Human Rights Office has expressed deep concern for the safety of civilians in “El Fasher,” North Darfur State, Sudan, amid reports of a potential imminent attack by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
In a statement issued by the office’s spokesperson, Mr. Seif Magango, it was revealed that on January 20, the RSF issued a final ultimatum to forces allied with the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) to leave the city by noon today, indicating a possible attack. Conversely, the SAF has affirmed its readiness to counter any aggression.
The city of “El Fasher” has been under siege by the RSF since May of last year, resulting in significant suffering for the civilian population.
The statement emphasized that the residents of “El Fasher” have already endured enough after months of violence and human rights violations, especially during the ongoing siege of the city.
The UN office has called on both parties to de-escalate tensions and take urgent measures to ensure the protection of civilians in accordance with their obligations under international law. It also urged both sides to return to the negotiating table for the benefit of the Sudanese people and to avoid further humanitarian tragedies.
