U.S. envoy warns of dire consequences for El Fasher civilians

April 13, 2024 (KHARTOUM) – The U.S. Special Envoy for Sudan, Tom Perriello, issued a stark warning today regarding the ongoing clashes in El Fasher, North Darfur. He emphasized the grave danger civilians face, many of whom are already displaced and in desperate need of humanitarian aid.

“The continued fighting in El Fasher is a humanitarian catastrophe in the making,” Perriello said. “These innocent people have already lost their homes and are struggling to survive. Further displacement would be devastating.”

Perriello specifically urged the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) to lift the siege on El Fasher. He called on all parties involved – the RSF, the Sudanese army, allied fighters, and any other armed groups – to strictly adhere to international law protecting civilians and prioritize their safety.

His statements come in response to recent attacks by the RSF on villages in western El Fasher inhabited by the Zaghawa people. Perriello stressed that any offensive action will only worsen the violence. He called for a peaceful resolution, urging all sides to de-escalate tensions and work towards a solution.

The targeting of the Zaghawa raises serious concerns about an expanding conflict. This is the second ethnic group targeted by the RSF and Arab-allied militia in recent months. Last June, attacks on the Massalit people in West Darfur forced hundreds of thousands to flee to Chad.