UN human rights chief warns of atrocities in El Fasher after RSF takeover

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, issued a statement expressing grave concern over the situation in El Fasher, Sudan, where traumatized civilians remain trapped and are being prevented from leaving the city.

“I fear that the abominable atrocities such as summary executions, rape and ethnically motivated violence are continuing within the city,” Türk stated.

The statement follows mounting reports from UN human rights watchdogs and other experts regarding widespread violence and alleged war crimes after the city fell to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia on October 23. The RSF has been engaged in a conflict with its former allies, the military government in Khartoum, for control of Sudan for over two years.

Türk added that the violence continues even for those who managed to flee, with exit routes becoming scenes of "unimaginable cruelty." Since the capture of El Fasher, civilian casualties, destruction, and mass displacement have been mounting, and developments on the ground show "clear preparations for intensified hostilities."

War Crimes and Sexual Violence Allegations

UN Special Adviser on genocide prevention, Chaloka Beyani, raised concerns over allegations of war crimes, noting "massive violations of international human rights law, direct attacks on civilians, non-compliance with international humanitarian law."

In a separate statement, UN independent experts voiced alarm over the humanitarian crisis, pointing to "sadistic levels" of sexual violence and abuse. They also expressed outrage over credible reports of ethnically targeted summary executions of civilians in El Fasher by the RSF. The experts stressed that these acts are prohibited under international law, constitute war crimes, and may amount to crimes against humanity, demanding they cease immediately. They underscored that prompt, independent investigations are critical.

Calls for Immediate Ceasefire and Arms Embargo

The RSF reportedly agreed to a ceasefire proposed by the United States and Arab countries; however, the national army has not yet signed the agreement, and attacks are continuing, including explosions around the government-held capital, Khartoum.

Türk reiterated his plea for an "immediate end to the violence both in Darfur and Kordofan." He also stressed the importance of the UN Security Council’s arms embargo: "The provision of continuing military support to sustain parties committing serious violations must stop."

The High Commissioner concluded by calling for "bold and urgent action" by the international community. The UN Human Rights Council is scheduled to hold a special session on the situation in and around El Fasher on Friday, November 14.