More than 60,000 people have fled the Sudanese city of el-Fasher, which was captured by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) over the weekend, according to the UN refugee agency. The UNHCR's Eujin Byun reported that the flow of those fleeing the violence towards the town of Tawila, about 80km (50 miles) west of el-Fasher, had increased in the past few days. The UN agency is struggling to find enough shelter and food for the fleeing civilians, with every child suffering from malnutrition, Byun said.
The RSF fighters stormed the city after an 18-month siege marked by starvation and heavy bombardment, resulting in reports of mass executions and crimes against humanity. The RSF has denied widespread allegations of atrocities, but the UNHCR has documented numerous accounts of rape, harassment, extortion, and abuse from armed men along the way to Tawila. Many are trying to reach the town, but face significant challenges in their journey.
El-Fasher had been the army's last stronghold in the western region of Darfur, where an estimated 150,000 people are still trapped. The conflict in Darfur has been ongoing for decades, with various factions vying for control and resources. The RSF, led by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, has been accused of human rights abuses and war crimes in the region.
The international community has expressed concern over the situation in Sudan. The United Nations has called for an immediate ceasefire and the protection of civilians. The African Union has also condemned the violence and urged all parties to respect human rights and international law. The European Union has announced plans to provide humanitarian aid to affected areas.
The current situation in Sudan remains dire, with thousands of people displaced and in need of assistance. The UNHCR is working to provide shelter, food, and medical care to those affected, but resources are limited. The international community is watching the situation closely, with many calling for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
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