A recent attack in the Darfur region by Sudanese paramilitary forces caused significant casualties, with at least 53 individuals losing their lives, including 14 children and 15 women. The assault, carried out by the Rapid Support Forces on the city of El Fasher, also resulted in 21 people sustaining injuries, with most of them being severe. The attack targeted a shelter known as al-Arqam Home, which caters to displaced families in El Fasher. The Sudan Doctors Network, a group of medical professionals monitoring the conflict, condemned the incident as a violation of international laws and norms.
The Mashad Organization, a human rights group, described the attack as one of the worst massacres since the paramilitary forces began their offensive in the city over a year ago. They labeled it as an act of genocide that has gone unnoticed by the global community. El Fasher has been a focal point of clashes between the Sudanese military and paramilitary forces, with the city facing a blockade since July, trapping around 260,000 civilians. The dire situation has led to food shortages and disease outbreaks like cholera, as reported by the UN.
The conflict in Sudan escalated from tensions between the military and paramilitary forces in April 2023, resulting in widespread violence, displacement of millions, and famine in various parts of the country. The International Criminal Court is investigating the atrocities, including mass killings and sexual violence, as potential war crimes and crimes against humanity.