Khartoum: A deadly offensive by Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on Zamzam Camp, a major shelter for displaced civilians near al-Fasher, has resulted in a catastrophic toll, leaving hundreds dead or injured, according to Sudan’s foreign ministry and humanitarian organizations.
The General Coordination of Displaced Persons and Refugees reported that the violence began Thursday and continued into Saturday. The assault devastated the camp’s homes, markets, and medical centers, resulting in significant civilian casualties—most of them women and children. The group denounced the attack as both a war crime and a crime against humanity.
Earlier in the week, similar violence at Abu Shouk Camp led to the deaths of at least 35 civilians, worsening an already dire situation in the region. “Al-Fasher is facing a total humanitarian collapse,” the advocacy group warned, citing severe shortages of food, medicine, and safety.
UN Humanitarian Coordinator Clementine Nkweta-Salami confirmed that over 100 people were killed between the two camps, which together host more than 700,000 displaced individuals. Many of these people are now effectively trapped, with no access to aid or secure shelter.
Relief International, the last aid group operating in Zamzam, reported that its health clinic was overrun during the attack. Nine staff members, including doctors and drivers, were killed. “This was a deliberate assault on the most defenseless—children, women, and the elderly,” the group stated.
The RSF has denied responsibility, claiming that allegations of mass atrocities were fabricated. It accused the Sudanese army of staging videos to manipulate public opinion and dismissed the footage as part of a media smear campaign. The RSF reiterated its adherence to international humanitarian law and insisted it did not target civilians.
Local leaders and international relief organizations are urging both sides to agree to an immediate ceasefire and allow unhindered humanitarian access.
The conflict in Sudan began in April 2023 amid a violent power struggle between the RSF and the national army, derailing hopes for democratic progress. The ongoing war has displaced millions and left regions like Darfur in chaos as both sides vie for control.
