Satellite images reveal over 31km of berms constructed since May in territories occupied by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). El-Fasher, which has been under siege for more than a year, is the last significant stronghold in Darfur for Sudan’s army, which has engaged in fierce battles against the RSF since April 2023.
The Sudan Doctors Network expressed that the RSF is intensifying its offensive by deliberately targeting civilians. Dr. Mohamed Faisal Hassan, associated with the medics' association, informed that recent shelling in civilian areas resulted in the deaths of nearly 24 civilians and injured many more. Such attacks have also targeted local hospitals, leading to significant casualties among medical staff and patients.
According to Yale's HRL, while both combatant sides have employed earthen walls for defensive measures, the RSF is allegedly constructing a 'kill box' around el-Fasher. This build-up exacerbates the desperate humanitarian conditions, making it increasingly challenging for civilians to flee or receive essential supplies.
With the RSF denying accusations of civilian targeting and ethnic cleansing, reports show that escape attempts by civilians often end tragically. The situation further escalates with limited access for humanitarian organizations, leaving approximately 300,000 individuals trapped and suffering from severe shortages of food and medical care.
As of now, the construction of the physical wall continues. Observers warn that the fall of el-Fasher could permit the RSF total control over western Darfur, possibly resulting in the fragmentation of Sudan as factions vie for power.
Yale's HRL mapped the ongoing construction, revealing a complex of defense structures designed to solidify the RSF's hold over the area. This worrying trend highlights the urgent need for international intervention to protect civilians in el-Fasher as resources dwindle and violence persists.
