El-Fasher, the capital of North Darfur, remains under siege by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) but has not fallen. The city has been encircled for over nine months, with intensified drone and artillery str1kes causing significant c1vilian casualties and displacement. Despite an RSF ultimatum demanding the withdrawal of Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and allied groups, the city’s defenders have maintained their positions. Recent reports indicate that RSF reinforcements are gathering southeast of El-Fasher, suggesting preparations for renewed offensives.
The battle of El-Fasher could be a turning point in the Sudan w@r due to its strategic location and political significance: the last major city in Darfur not under RSF control, its capture could solidify their hold over the region, effectively cutting Darfur off from the rest of Sudan. Conversely, if the SAF successfully defend the city, it could disrupt RSF expansion and allow the army to use El-Fasher as a base for counteroffensives.
The humanitarian situation remains dire, with residents facing severe food shortages and limited access to medical care. The international community continues to express concern over the escalating v1olence and its impact on c1vilians, with the United Nations Secretary-General denouncing an att@ck on the Saudi University Hospital in El-Fasher, where at least 70 people were k1lled. The International Criminal Court has also warned of large-scale cr1mes in Darfur, and is preparing arrest warrants.
In Khartoum, the situation remains fluid. SAF troops from the Armored Corps have been seen in Al-Remila district, approximately 4.5 kilometers from linking up with the main forces in Khartoum and Omdurman.