The RSF renewed its attacks on the Zamzam camp, prompting North Darfur’s governor to call for armed defense by civilians. Meanwhile, Médecins Sans Frontières urges protection for civilians and medical personnel amidst escalating violence, highlighting a severe humanitarian crisis in the region. Eyewitness reports detail horrific conditions, including injuries and deaths, as displaced individuals flee the camp, demanding urgent international intervention.
On February 12, 2025, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) intensified attacks on Zamzam camp in North Darfur, prompting Governor Minni Arko Minawi to urge armed civilians to defend the displaced population. Following an assault that began Tuesday, extensive abuses were reported, including the burning of the camp’s main market and significant property looting. The attack was ultimately repelled by local military forces.
Governor Minawi described the situation on Facebook, stating, “We call on all those who can bear arms to move to save our displaced people from the brutality of the terrorist RSF militia and to protect the land and honour.” His remarks came amid ongoing hostilities that left many casualties during the RSF’s attacks on the camp. Eyewitness accounts confirm loud explosions and persistent fires as thousands of displaced individuals fled toward El Fasher, some wounded by gunfire.
The Coordination of Displaced Persons and Refugees condemned the RSF’s actions as a massacre, highlighting the rampant violence and humanitarian crisis within the camp. Adam Regal, a spokesperson for the Coordination, recounted scenes of horror, stating that streets were filled with blood and body parts and emphasized the desperate plight faced by women and children.
Regal categorized the attack as a war crime, urging the international community to intervene and protect the displaced civilians. He called for immediate action to impose sanctions on the aggressors, while also appealing to humanitarian organizations to raise awareness of these atrocities and provide necessary aid.
Displaced individuals are fearful that if the RSF gains control of the camp, it could result in ethnic cleansing similar to incidents previously observed in West Darfur. The RSF has historically accused the camp’s residents of affiliation with the joint forces, a claim that the forces deny.
Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) issued an urgent plea to warring parties in Sudan, seeking protection for civilians and healthcare workers amid the escalating violence. MSF expressed deep concern for the safety of both civilians and their own staff in the camp, where they reported numerous recent casualties and an overwhelmed hospital system.
As violence escalates, their medical facility has seen a notable increase in patients, yet lacks the capacity for trauma surgery, with blocked access to the nearest treatment center due to ongoing conflict. MSF reiterated the critical need for safe evacuation routes for civilians and enhanced protection for medical personnel and facilities.
The ongoing conflict in Zamzam camp highlights severe humanitarian issues as RSF continues its violent assaults, prompting Governor Minawi’s call for civilian defense. Médecins Sans Frontières stresses the need for immediate protection of civilians and medical staff amid escalating violence. The situation demands urgent international attention to mitigate a potential humanitarian disaster. Actions are required to ensure the safety and assistance for the vulnerable displaced population. Continuing attacks raise fears of ethnic cleansing and further suffering for displaced individuals. It is critical for humanitarian efforts to help bring awareness and relief to these urgent needs.
Original Source: sudantribune.com
