UNICEF expresses deep concern over situation in Sudan’s al-Fashir

According to Al Jazeera, UNICEF voiced alarm over the worsening humanitarian situation in al-Fashir, calling for an immediate ceasefire, safe and unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid, protection of civilians, and safe passage for families seeking refuge.

In a related statement, the World Health Organization (WHO) said it was “shocked and saddened” by reports of more than 460 patients and their companions being killed and the kidnapping of maternity hospital staff during recent attacks.

The WHO reiterated the urgent need for the immediate and unconditional cessation of attacks on health facilities in Sudan and called for the protection of patients, healthcare workers, and medical centers in line with international humanitarian law.

News outlets reported on Tuesday that Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) rebels had finally seized control of al-Fashir, the capital of North Darfur, after an 18-month siege. Backed by foreign military support and pursuing a political agenda, the RSF’s takeover is seen by analysts as an attempt to consolidate control over western Sudan and use the victory as leverage in potential future negotiations.

Meanwhile, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, head of Sudan’s Sovereign Council, confirmed that the army’s withdrawal from al-Fashir was intended to prevent further destruction and protect civilian lives. He warned that the Sudanese people will hold the perpetrators accountable, and vowed that the army, popular resistance, and joint forces will continue to fight to reclaim every inch of the country’s territory.

The armed conflict in Sudan began on April 15, 2023, between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), led by Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), commanded by Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti. The war — rooted in a power struggle and disputes over integrating the RSF into the national army following the 2021 coup — has so far defied all international mediation efforts aimed at ending the violence.