New Amnesty Report Alleges Systematic Atrocities by RSF in Sudan’s el-Fasher as Violence Threatens to Spread
New Amnesty Report Alleges Systematic Atrocities by RSF in Sudan’s el-Fasher as Violence Threatens to Spread
Human Rights Group Says Evidence Points to Ethnic-Based Attacks Amid Sudan’s Deepening Civil War
A newly released Amnesty International report has intensified global scrutiny of Sudan’s devastating civil war, alleging that the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) committed crimes against humanity and carried out widespread abuses against civilians during the battle for el-Fasher in the Darfur region. The report comes as humanitarian organizations warn that another major offensive by the RSF could place thousands more civilians at risk in the strategically important city of al-Ubaid.
Amnesty Documents Accounts from Hundreds of Survivors
Amnesty International based its findings on interviews with nearly 250 people, including more than 200 survivors who experienced the fighting in and around el-Fasher. According to the organization, witness testimonies describe a pattern of violence that included mass killings, forced disappearances, physical assaults, sexual violence, kidnappings, and other serious human rights violations.
Investigators said many victims reported being subjected to ethnic insults during the attacks, suggesting that civilians were targeted because of their identity rather than being caught in crossfire. Amnesty concluded that the alleged abuses formed part of a broader campaign directed against members of the Zaghawa community, whose armed groups had defended the city against advancing RSF forces.
Children Among Those Allegedly Targeted
The report also raises grave concerns about violence against children during the fighting. Amnesty said evidence collected from survivors indicates that children were deliberately subjected to shootings, abductions, and sexual violence rather than being accidental victims of combat.
The organization argues that these accounts demonstrate a pattern of intentional attacks against civilians, actions that could constitute serious violations of international humanitarian law if confirmed by independent investigations.
RSF Rejects the Scale of Allegations
The Rapid Support Forces have previously acknowledged that violations occurred during the conflict in el-Fasher but dispute the extent of the allegations. The paramilitary group says it has opened investigations into reported misconduct while maintaining that opponents have exaggerated claims for political purposes.
Despite those denials, Amnesty International said it identified commanders allegedly linked to violations and urged the international community to pursue accountability for those responsible. Human rights advocates argue that continued impunity risks encouraging further abuses as Sudan’s conflict enters another dangerous phase.
International Alarm Grows Over al-Ubaid
The release of the report coincides with mounting concern over developments in al-Ubaid, a strategically significant city in south-central Sudan where the RSF is reportedly preparing for a large-scale assault.
According to reports cited by Amnesty, the group has increased troop deployments while intensifying drone attacks that have damaged fuel supplies, water infrastructure, electrical facilities, and transport routes. Aid agencies warn that these attacks are worsening an already severe humanitarian crisis for civilians living in the city.
Fears of Another Humanitarian Catastrophe
Officials from the United Nations, humanitarian organizations, and several Western governments have expressed concern that al-Ubaid could experience violence similar to what unfolded in el-Fasher if fighting escalates.
Although al-Ubaid is home to a more diverse population than el-Fasher, humanitarian groups warn that prolonged attacks on essential infrastructure could leave thousands without reliable access to food, clean water, electricity, or medical services.
Authorities aligned with the RSF have announced plans to establish a humanitarian corridor intended to allow civilians to move to safer areas. However, aid organizations say its effectiveness will depend on whether all parties respect humanitarian protections during active military operations.
Sudan’s Humanitarian Crisis Shows No Signs of Easing
Sudan has remained locked in civil war since April 2023, when fighting erupted between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces. The conflict has displaced millions of people and created one of the world’s most severe humanitarian emergencies.
As evidence of alleged atrocities continues to emerge, international pressure is growing for independent investigations, accountability for those responsible, and stronger diplomatic efforts to protect civilians. With fears of renewed violence in al-Ubaid, humanitarian agencies warn that immediate action will be essential to prevent another large-scale civilian tragedy.
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