Thousands Trapped in El Fasher Siege on Edge of Survival, Says Report
EL FASHER, Sudan - The besieged city of El Fasher has been declared uninhabitable due to the devastating effects of more than 500 days of attacks by paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), leaving thousands trapped with limited access to food, water, and medical care.
According to a recent report, most homes in the city have been destroyed, and critical levels of malnourishment are prevalent among the population. The report highlights the dire situation faced by the 250,000 people who remain in the city, with many on the brink of survival.
"It's like living in a war zone," said Dr. Amira Ahmed, a local medic who has been working in El Fasher for months. "The constant artillery and drone attacks have made it impossible to provide adequate medical care. We're doing our best with what little resources we have, but it's not enough."
El Fasher, the last stronghold of the Sudanese army in the west of the country, has been under siege since June 2022. The RSF, led by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, has been accused of using heavy artillery and drones to attack civilian areas, causing widespread destruction and loss of life.
The report notes that the city's infrastructure is severely damaged, with many homes destroyed or rendered uninhabitable due to shelling and bombing. The lack of access to basic necessities such as food, water, and sanitation has led to a surge in malnourishment, particularly among children.
"The situation is catastrophic," said Dr. Ahmed. "We're seeing cases of severe malnutrition, including kwashiorkor and marasmus. It's heartbreaking to see children suffering like this."
The siege has also had a devastating impact on the city's economy, with many businesses forced to close due to lack of access to markets and supplies.
The international community has been urged to intervene in the crisis, with human rights groups calling for an immediate ceasefire and humanitarian aid to be delivered to the besieged population.
As the situation continues to deteriorate, the people of El Fasher remain trapped, with limited hope of relief. The report's findings serve as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of prolonged conflict and the need for urgent action to address the crisis.
Background:
The conflict in Sudan began in 2022 when protests against the government turned violent, leading to a military coup that ousted President Omar al-Bashir. The RSF, led by General Dagalo, has been accused of human rights abuses and war crimes during the conflict.
Additional Perspectives:
A spokesperson for the RSF denied allegations of targeting civilian areas, stating that their forces are "committed to protecting civilians and infrastructure."
The Sudanese government has also denied responsibility for the crisis, blaming external actors for fueling the conflict.
Current Status and Next Developments:
As the situation in El Fasher continues to deteriorate, humanitarian organizations are calling for an immediate ceasefire and increased access to aid. The international community is urged to intervene to prevent further suffering and loss of life.
The people of El Fasher remain trapped, with limited hope of relief. As the siege enters its 550th day, the world watches anxiously, waiting for a resolution to this devastating crisis.
*Reporting by Theguardian.*
