Thousands Trapped in El Fasher Siege on "Edge of Survival"
The besieged city of El Fasher, Sudan has reached a critical point with over 250,000 residents trapped in a shrinking urban area due to constant artillery and drone attacks. According to a recent report, the situation is becoming increasingly dire, with thousands on the "edge of survival" (The Guardian). The city's infrastructure has been severely damaged, leaving most homes destroyed and widespread malnourishment among its inhabitants.
The siege, which has lasted for over 500 days, has taken a devastating toll on the civilian population. A recent attack on a displacement shelter in El Fasher last week killed at least 57 people, with many more injured (The Guardian). The remnants of the shell that targeted the shelter serve as a grim reminder of the ongoing humanitarian crisis.
According to reports from aid organizations, the city's residents are struggling to access basic necessities such as food, water, and medical care. "The situation is catastrophic," said a spokesperson for one aid organization. "We're seeing widespread malnourishment, particularly among children, who are unable to access even the most basic necessities."
The siege has been carried out by the Sudanese army's paramilitary force, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which has been accused of using disproportionate force against civilians. The RSF claims that it is fighting a rebel group in the area, but many have criticized its tactics as indiscriminate and inhumane.
Despite efforts by aid organizations to reach the city, humanitarian access has been blocked for over 500 days. "We're doing everything we can to get aid into El Fasher," said a spokesperson for another aid organization. "But it's getting increasingly difficult due to the ongoing fighting."
The situation in El Fasher is a stark reminder of the ongoing conflict in Sudan and the need for urgent humanitarian action. As one expert noted, "The international community must act quickly to prevent further suffering and ensure that those trapped in El Fasher receive the aid they so desperately need."
This story was compiled from reports by The Guardian and The Guardian.
