At Least 40 Killed in Attack on Sudan Displacement Camp Amid Ongoing Civil War

An attack on a displaced persons camp in Darfur has resulted in the deaths of at least 40 people, carried out by the Rapid Support Forces amid ongoing clashes with the Sudanese army. This incident, part of a larger humanitarian crisis where millions suffer from war and famine, has drawn international concern and calls for accountability.

The humanitarian situation in Sudan's western Darfur region has taken a catastrophic turn following a deadly attack on a camp for displaced individuals, resulting in at least 40 fatalities. The assault, attributed to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), occurred on Monday and was reported by various aid organizations, including the Abu Shouk Emergency Response Room. The organization stated that victims were shot both in their homes and in public, amidst intense fighting in the nearby city of el-Fasher.

Since the conflict erupted in April 2023, the western part of Sudan has endured relentless violence as the RSF battles the Sudanese army, significantly deteriorating the humanitarian landscape. The city of el-Fasher, where many displaced individuals seek refuge, has become a battleground, with reports indicating that families are facing starvation as essential supplies dwindle.

According to Sudanese media, the camp, home to approximately 200,000 displaced individuals, found itself caught in the crossfire during the conflict that has claimed tens of thousands of lives and displaced over 12 million people throughout the country. The Yale Humanitarian Research Lab, a US-based organization, has identified evidence of RSF activity in the area, further corroborating claims of targeted attacks based on ethnicity, particularly against the Zaghawa community.

This camp has historical significance, established over two decades ago for non-Arab communities fleeing violence from militias linked to the RSF’s origins. While the RSF has been accused of ethnic cleansing and genocide, it maintains that its actions are part of a broader struggle against tribal conflicts. The attacks on camps for displaced people, including an incident in April that left over 100 dead, represent an alarming trend of violence against vulnerable populations.

The ongoing crisis in Sudan is further compounded by widespread famine and dire living conditions, as many families are left scavenging for food while humanitarian aid remains critically insufficient. International efforts to address the escalating violence and provide relief to affected communities are urgently needed in light of the deteriorating situation.