El-Fasher, Sudan – April 15, 2025 | More than 400 people have been killed in recent attacks by Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in the Darfur region, according to the United Nations, citing “credible sources.” The UN warns the death toll could rise further as verification efforts continue.
The deadly assault took place last week as RSF launched intense ground and aerial operations on refugee camps surrounding El-Fasher, the last major city in Darfur still under control of the Sudanese army. The attacks targeted densely populated camps, including Zamzam and Abu Shouk, home to more than 700,000 displaced civilians, many already facing famine-like conditions.
UN Confirms Dozens, Warns of More Casualties
While the UN has verified 148 deaths between Thursday and Saturday, spokeswoman Ravina Shamdasani told the BBC that the actual number is far higher. “Credible sources have reported more than 400 killed,” she said, noting that the toll doesn’t include casualties from Sunday’s violence.
At least nine humanitarian aid workers are among those confirmed dead, deepening concerns over the safety of relief efforts in the region.
RSF Denies Civilian Killings, Blames Army
In a statement released on Saturday, the RSF denied responsibility for civilian deaths in Zamzam camp, calling images of the massacre “staged” to tarnish their reputation. However, a day later, the group claimed a “successful liberation” of Zamzam, alleging the Sudanese army had used the camp as a military base and “innocent civilians as human shields.”
This contradiction has raised serious alarm among international observers, with the UN urging independent investigations and protection for civilians.
El-Fasher Under Siege
El-Fasher has remained under RSF siege for nearly a year and is the last state capital in Darfur still held by the Sudanese army. The battle for control of the city marks a dangerous escalation in a war that has devastated Sudan since April 2023, displacing millions and creating what the UN calls the world’s largest humanitarian crisis.
As Sudan’s civil war nears its third year, UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk urged all parties to “renew their resolve to take meaningful steps towards resolving the conflict.”
“This violence is a tragedy for the people of Sudan and a stain on the conscience of the world. We must not look away,” Türk stated.
A Worsening Humanitarian Nightmare
The latest massacre highlights the dire humanitarian situation across Darfur. Aid organizations report dwindling access to food, water, and medical care, while ongoing violence continues to block humanitarian corridors.
As calls grow for a ceasefire and renewed peace talks, the people of Darfur face a bleak and uncertain future, caught between two warring forces with no end to the conflict in sight.
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