Global Health Justice

July 10, 2024

Crisis in Sudan: Urgent Call for De-Escalation in El Fasher

By Assem Suleimenova, GHJ Team

El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur, is at the epicenter of escalating conflicts in Sudan, now a battleground between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). With over a million civilians, many displaced and on the verge of starvation, the situation in El Fasher demands immediate global attention. This violence stems from a broader conflict that ignited in April 2023 in Khartoum, fracturing the nation and thrusting Darfur into chaos.

The importance of El Fasher cannot be overstated. It shelters a vast number of civilians whose survival hangs by a thread. An extended siege—or worse, a takeover—could result in catastrophic loss of life and severe human rights abuses.

Immediate action is required. The United Nations and the United States should mediate to reduce tensions and establish a local truce. Influential Arab and African leaders must urge all parties to cease hostilities. It is crucial to ensure safe exit routes for civilians, enable unhindered aid delivery, and push for a resumption of national dialogue.

As the conflict deepens, the international community must intervene to prevent a humanitarian disaster in El Fasher and support efforts towards a sustainable peace in Sudan.

Image source: www.aljazeera.com