NAIROBI (KAAB TV) – Amid escalating tensions and the looming threat of violence in El Fasher, North Darfur, the United States has issued a fervent appeal for all armed forces in Sudan to cease attacks immediately.
The call comes as fears mount over an impending offensive by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and its affiliated militias, raising grave concerns for the safety of civilians, particularly those already displaced in the region.
Matthew Miller, the State Department Spokesperson, conveyed the urgency of the situation, stating, “We are alarmed by indications of an imminent offensive by the Rapid Support Forces and its affiliated militias.
An offensive against El Fasher city would subject civilians to extreme danger, including the hundreds of thousands of displaced persons who have taken refuge there.”
The United States government expressed profound distress over credible reports detailing the destruction of multiple villages west of El Fasher by the RSF and its affiliates.
“We also condemn reported indiscriminate aerial bombardments in the region by the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and their continued limitations on life-saving humanitarian aid access,” added Miller, underscoring the dire humanitarian implications of the ongoing conflict.
In a stark message to the leaders of the SAF, RSF, and their associated militias, Miller emphasized the critical choice they face: either escalate violence, exacerbating the suffering of their people and risking the stability of the nation, or opt for peace by halting attacks, facilitating humanitarian assistance, and engaging in earnest negotiations to bring an end to the protracted conflict and empower the people of Sudan.
Echoing these concerns, the United Nations raised alarm over the escalating tensions in El Fasher.
Reports indicate that the RSF is encircling the city, hinting at a coordinated assault, while the Sudanese Armed Forces position themselves for potential engagement.
“The prospect of an attack on the city is deeply troubling, with devastating consequences for the civilian population, already teetering on the brink of famine,” remarked the UN Secretary-General’s office, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
Secretary-General Antonio Guterres reiterated his plea to all parties involved to exercise restraint and refrain from further violence in the El Fasher area.
As the specter of conflict looms large over North Darfur, the international community braces for potential humanitarian catastrophe, emphasizing the urgent need for a cessation of hostilities and a concerted effort towards lasting peace and stability in Sudan.