Sudan's Hidden Crisis: Thousands Trapped as Violence Escalates

The situation in Sudan is deteriorating rapidly. The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have seized control of el-Fasher, a city in the western Darfur region, following an 18-month siege. Thousands are fleeing, but only a fraction are reaching safety.

A Desperate Escape

Only a few thousand have made it to the nearest camp in Tawila, about 65 kilometers away. Shashwat Saraf of the Norwegian Refugee Council warns that the numbers are alarmingly low. Many remain trapped in el-Fasher, where survival is becoming increasingly difficult.

Survivors recount harrowing tales of dodging gunmen and fleeing for their lives. Many arrive at the camp injured, dehydrated, and disoriented—some don’t even remember their names. Immediate medical assistance is critical.

A Growing Humanitarian Crisis

The war, which began in April 2023, has already claimed over 40,000 lives, though the actual toll may be much higher. More than 14 million people have been displaced. Disease outbreaks are exacerbating the crisis.

Many are unable to flee due to lack of funds. Around 170 children, some as young as 3 years old, have arrived alone, separated from their families.

International Tensions Rise

Sudan’s government accuses the RSF of war crimes and urges the international community to take concrete action, not just issue statements. They also blame the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for supporting the RSF, though the UAE denies this while admitting past missteps in backing both sides.

Fear of Further Escalation

There are growing concerns that the RSF may target additional areas. Recently, they killed 12 people, including children, in camps in the central Kordofan region. The situation is critical, and global attention is urgently needed.