Thousands Missing, New Horrors Emerge After RSF Seizes Sudan’s El-Fasher
In late October 2025, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) captured El-Fasher, the last Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) stronghold in Darfur, leading to mass atrocities and a humanitarian crisis. Reports indicate that at least 1,500 civilians have been killed, with thousands more missing. The RSF’s actions have drawn international condemnation and raised fears of ethnic cleansing.
Mass Killings and Disappearances
Witnesses describe RSF fighters conducting house-to-house executions, targeting men and boys, and using racial slurs during the assaults. One survivor recounted escaping execution after being recognized by a captor. The Saudi Hospital became a site of a massacre, with over 460 people, including patients and medical staff, executed. Satellite imagery has confirmed these killings, showing bodies and signs of mass executions.
Humanitarian Crisis and Displacement
The International Organization for Migration reported that over 33,000 people were displaced from El-Fasher between October 26-28, 2025. Many fled to rural areas, while others sought refuge in nearby towns. The United Nations warns of ethnic cleansing and potential genocide, with nearly 25 million Sudanese now in need of humanitarian aid. The RSF’s actions have been described as a deliberate campaign of killing and extermination.
International Response and Condemnation
Global organizations, including the United Nations and Médecins Sans Frontières, have corroborated reports of large-scale executions and mass detentions for ransom. The RSF denies these allegations, claiming they only detained enemy combatants disguising as civilians. However, verified videos show RSF fighters shooting unarmed captives. International bodies like the International Criminal Court are investigating RSF actions for potential war crimes.
The situation in El-Fasher mirrors past atrocities in Darfur, with the RSF, originally formed by Sudan’s former regime, long accused of war crimes and sexual violence. The international community continues to call for urgent protection for civilians and accountability for the crimes committed.
