El-Fasher Siege Ends with Thousands Killed as Civilians Attempt to Flee

An 18-month siege of el-Fasher by the Rapid Support Forces ended in October with thousands killed as civilians tried to flee.\n\nThe city of el-Fasher in western Darfur has been a focal point of fighting between Sudan's army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces since 2023. The RSF encircled the city, severing roads and blocking aid convoys, leaving residents without reliable food or medicine.\n\nFor 18 months, civilians endured the siege as the RSF cut off food and escape routes. When the city fell in October, thousands were killed while attempting to flee. Survivors said that people were shot on the roads out of el-Fasher and bodies were left behind.\n\nRights groups warn the pattern of attacks may constitute ethnic cleansing and call for independent investigations. The United Nations has urged both sides to allow humanitarian access and protect civilians. Watch for upcoming UN Security Council deliberations and any evidence-gathering missions that could shape future accountability efforts.