The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has issued a grave warning that the war in Sudan is “spiraling out of control,” as violence intensifies following the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) takeover of El Fasher, a key city in the Darfur region. Speaking at a UN summit in Qatar, Guterres called for an immediate ceasefire to end what he described as one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises.
El Fasher Under Siege
Guterres revealed that hundreds of thousands of civilians remain trapped under siege conditions in El Fasher. Reports indicate widespread malnutrition, disease, and targeted killings, with the UN confirming credible evidence of mass executions and sexual violence since RSF forces entered the city. The RSF, which had besieged El Fasher for 18 months, is accused of ethnically targeted killings and atrocities inside hospitals — claims the group has denied. However, satellite imagery and eyewitness accounts depict devastating destruction and chaos.
A Humanitarian Catastrophe Unfolding
The conflict between the RSF and Sudanese military, which began in April 2023, has already claimed over 40,000 lives. Humanitarian agencies warn the actual death toll may be far higher. The war has displaced more than 14 million people, creating one of the largest refugee crises in the world. Meanwhile, parts of Sudan are facing severe famine and disease outbreaks, further deepening the suffering of civilians.
Global Call for Action
Guterres emphasized the urgent need for international cooperation to stop arms flows into Sudan and hold perpetrators accountable. “No more weapons should enter Sudan,” he urged, adding that the world must create mechanisms of accountability for the horrific crimes committed.
The UN chief’s message was clear — only a permanent ceasefire and a coordinated international response can end the carnage and prevent Sudan from collapsing completely.
