RSF Claims Control of El-Fasher, Marking Major Darfur Shift in Sudan Civil War

The Rapid Support Forces (RSF), Sudan's paramilitary wing, have claimed control over the strategic city of El-Fasher in the Darfur region, marking a significant development in the ongoing civil war that has lasted over 18 months. This city, the Sudanese army's last stronghold in Darfur, has been under partial siege by RSF forces, trapping around 250,000 to 300,000 civilians who face severe shortages of food, medicine, and safety amidst continuous bombardment. Although the RSF asserts it has captured the army's 6th Division Headquarters and significant military equipment, the Sudanese Armed Forces have not confirmed these claims, and some reports suggest that while the RSF controls the infantry division base, full control of El-Fasher city is not yet secured. The conflict has caused thousands of deaths and displaced millions, with UN officials urging an immediate ceasefire due to the humanitarian crisis characterized by starvation and blocked aid access. Concurrently, heavy fighting persists around El-Fasher and nearby areas such as Bara in North Kordofan, as RSF expands its offensive, complicating the humanitarian situation further. The situation underscores the potential for a political and military shift in Darfur, possibly leading to a divided Sudan with the RSF consolidating power in the region.