United Nations officials have condemned the “horrifying” reports of mass killings in Sudan’s Darfur region as the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) continue to gain ground in the ongoing conflict.
Thousands of civilians - including women and children - have reportedly been killed in recent days, with witnesses describing widespread atrocities and destruction as RSF fighters clash with government troops over control of key areas.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres said the situation in Sudan could amount to war crimes, calling for an immediate international response to protect civilians and stop the bloodshed.
The UN Special Representative for Sudan added that many residents have been forced to flee their homes, while others are hiding in forests and deserted areas to escape the violence.
The United Nations has urged both the RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces to halt fighting and allow humanitarian access to affected populations who are in desperate need of food, shelter, and medical assistance.
The war, which began in April 2023, has already claimed the lives of over 10,000 people and displaced more than 8 million, making it one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises.