The RSF’s recent attacks on the Zamzam camp in North Darfur have resulted in multiple casualties and significant destruction, marking a continuation of violence in the region. The humanitarian situation is dire, with widespread displacement and reports of famine. Local leaders call for action against what they term genocide, highlighting the urgent need for international attention and support.
The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have launched a second attack on the Zamzam camp for displaced individuals, located near El Fasher in North Darfur. Reports indicate that the assault resulted in eight fatalities and 31 injuries among camp residents, along with the destruction of multiple shops and homes. The attack follows heightened tensions characterized by heavy artillery fire and gunfire.
Eyewitness accounts suggest that the RSF’s offensive began around 6:00 AM and persisted until approximately 11:00 AM, during which large plumes of smoke were seen rising from the camp amid ongoing internet outages. Leaders like Minni Minawi highlighted that this latest offensive marks the 10th significant attack on the area, citing previous violence towards the end of the previous year.
The humanitarian crisis in Zamzam is severe, with conditions described as “beyond comprehension.” A report from the Yale School of Public Health’s Humanitarian Research Lab on December 13 confirmed widespread displacement of civilians due to previous RSF bombardments. The camp, which shelters around half a million individuals, has also faced famine issues since August 2022.
While the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) claimed to have repelled the latest RSF assault using artillery and air support, local reports pointed to intense six-hour confrontations between the RSF and the Darfur Joint Force. The RSF is accused of attacking from multiple directions, exacerbating the ongoing conflict and instability in the region.
In a strong condemnation of the RSF’s actions, Minni Minawi urged armed individuals to defend the displaced populace and called upon national and international entities to address what he labeled as genocide. He emphasized the need for attention from the media and the global community to this crisis.
Following the attack, RSF soldiers released videos asserting their presence inside the camp and displaying confiscated items. Past allegations suggest the RSF targeted civilians, asserting they were focused on rebel strongholds while combating claims of human shields used by their adversaries. Tom Perriello, the US Special Envoy for Sudan at the time, noted the militarization of the Zamzam camp by local forces.
The ongoing violence in North Darfur, particularly at the Zamzam camp, underscores a deteriorating humanitarian situation exacerbated by RSF attacks and military confrontations. Multiple reports document civilian casualties, significant displacements, and severe living conditions within the camp. As calls for international intervention grow, it is critical to recognize the urgent need for humanitarian assistance and a targeted response to the escalating crisis.
Original Source: www.dabangasudan.org
