UN condemns RSF attacks in Sudan, urges ceasefire, protection of civilians, and political dialogue amid worsening humanitarian crisis.

The United Nations Security Council has expressed deep concern over the rising violence in Sudan, following a series of deadly attacks by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) that have reportedly resulted in the deaths of about 400 civilians, including children and aid workers.

In a press statement delivered on Thursday, Jerome Bonnafont, France’s Permanent Representative to the UN and current President of the Security Council, stated, “The members of the Security Council strongly condemned the repeated attacks on El Fasher as well as on the Zamzam and Abu Shouk camps for internally displaced persons in recent days by the RSF.” He added, “They called for the RSF to be held accountable for these attacks.”

The statement also reiterated the Council's demand for an immediate halt to the fighting, with members urging de-escalation in and around El Fasher. Bonnafont emphasized that Council members called on all parties involved in the conflict to prioritize the protection of civilians and uphold their obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law.

As the conflict approaches its two-year anniversary, the Security Council stressed the urgency of political dialogue and a lasting ceasefire. “They encouraged the parties to engage, in good faith, in political dialogue towards a durable ceasefire and a comprehensive, inclusive, and Sudanese-owned political process,” Bonnafont said.

Since April 15, 2023, the RSF has been engaged in a violent struggle with the Sudanese army for control of the country, resulting in thousands of deaths and what the UN describes as one of the world's worst humanitarian crises. According to the UN and local authorities, more than 20,000 people have been killed and 15 million displaced.

In recent weeks, the RSF has lost considerable territory across Sudan as government forces have regained control in various regions.