The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has passed a resolution demanding that Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) end the siege of el-Fasher in North Darfur and cease fighting in the area. This resolution, approved by a vote of 14-0 with Russia abstaining, comes amid reports of severe violence and ethnic attacks by the RSF in el-Fasher.
Background of the Conflict
The conflict in Sudan began in April 2023 between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), led by Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the RSF, loyal to General Mohamed Hamdan “Hemedti” Dagalo. The violence has resulted in at least 14,000 deaths and displaced over 10 million people, according to UN estimates. The UNSC resolution expressed “grave concern” over the spreading violence and called for the protection of civilians, including allowing those wishing to leave el-Fasher to do so.
Humanitarian Crisis in El-Fasher
Hundreds of thousands of people are trapped in el-Fasher, the last major urban center in the western Darfur region not under RSF control. The resolution urged de-escalation and the withdrawal of all fighters threatening civilian safety. It also called on the RSF and military to seek an immediate cessation of hostilities and pursue a sustainable resolution through dialogue.
International Appeal for Peace
The UNSC resolution also appealed to all nations to cease actions that foment conflict and instability, rather than supporting peace efforts. Othman Belbeisi, the International Organization for Migration’s regional director for the Middle East and North Africa, noted that crucial roads out of el-Fasher are blocked, preventing civilians from reaching safer areas and limiting the inflow of food and humanitarian aid.
Call for Accountability
Louis Charbonneau, UN director at Human Rights Watch, welcomed the resolution, stating that it puts the Sudanese Armed Forces and RSF on notice that the international community is monitoring the situation closely. The resolution highlights the risk of imminent famine, especially in Darfur, and calls for accountability for violations of international humanitarian and human rights law.
ICC Investigation and Historical Context
Karim Khan, the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), appealed for evidence for an investigation into alleged war crimes in Darfur. He expressed extreme concern about allegations of widespread international crimes in el-Fasher and its surrounding areas, describing the situation as an organized, systematic attack on human dignity.
The ICC has a history of involvement in Darfur, having issued arrest warrants in 2009 for former Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir on charges including genocide, allegedly committed in Darfur between 2003 and 2008. The RSF originated from the Janjaweed militias mobilized by al-Bashir against non-Arab tribes in Darfur.
Political Turmoil in Sudan
Al-Bashir was removed from power by the Sudanese military in 2019 after months of anti-government protests. However, the promised transition to full civilian rule did not materialize, and the military staged a coup against the civilian government of Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok in October 2021, leading to his resignation in early 2022. Just weeks before the current violence erupted, Sudan’s leaders appeared poised to sign a deal to return the country to its democratic transition, but the agreement was delayed due to unresolved disagreements.
International Concern and Efforts
The international community remains deeply concerned about the humanitarian crisis in Sudan, particularly in Darfur. The blockade of el-Fasher and the ongoing violence have exacerbated an already dire situation, with significant numbers of displaced individuals and a severe lack of food and medical supplies.
Conclusion: A Call for Sustained Engagement
The UNSC resolution represents a strong international stance against the violence in Sudan and a call for immediate action to protect civilians and end the conflict. However, the complex political and ethnic dynamics in the region pose significant challenges to implementing and enforcing the resolution. The involvement of international bodies like the ICC and continued diplomatic efforts are crucial to addressing the crisis and moving towards a peaceful resolution. As the situation in Sudan continues to unfold, the global community must remain vigilant and committed to supporting humanitarian efforts and promoting peace and stability in the region. The plight of those affected by the conflict underscores the urgent need for coordinated international action and sustained engagement to alleviate suffering and prevent further violence.
