In a pressing call to action, the UN's Emergency Relief Coordinator has urgently requested an immediate ceasefire in El Fasher, the capital of Sudan’s North Darfur region, following its capture by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The plea comes amid escalating violence that has resulted in significant civilian casualties and displacement.

Tom Fletcher, the UN Relief Coordinator, expressed profound concern over the dire situation in a statement released on Sunday. He highlighted the urgent need for "safe, rapid, and unimpeded humanitarian access to reach all civilians in need." Fletcher detailed the challenges faced by humanitarian efforts, stating that intensified attacks have hindered the delivery of crucial aid, despite the readiness of lifesaving supplies. He emphasized the bravery of local humanitarian workers who continue to save lives under extremely dangerous conditions.

The call for a ceasefire extends beyond El Fasher to encompass all of Darfur and Sudan, advocating for the protection of civilians, the assurance of safe passage, and access to aid for those affected. Fletcher also called for the protection of those who choose to remain in the conflict zones, including local responders, and demanded an immediate halt to attacks on civilians, hospitals, and humanitarian operations.

Reiterating the obligations set forth by the UN Security Council Resolution 2736, Fletcher condemned the targeting of civilians and medical facilities, referencing recent tragic incidents where at least 20 individuals were killed in strikes on a mosque and hospital. He underscored the need for accountability for these actions, which followed nearly 100 civilian deaths in the previous month.

The fall of El Fasher, previously the last major city in Darfur under government control, marks a significant blow to government forces amidst a civil war that has wreaked havoc across Sudan since April 2023. According to media reports, the RSF has successfully seized control after overtaking the army’s Sixth Division headquarters, although confirmation from the Sudanese Armed Forces is pending.

This latest development significantly exacerbates the humanitarian crisis in Sudan, which is now considered one of the largest on record. The UN estimates that over 11.7 million people have been displaced due to the ongoing conflict. The international community watches closely as the situation in Sudan continues to unfold, with calls for peace and stability growing increasingly urgent.