UN Warns of Potential Humanitarian Crisis in Kordofan Following Violence in El Fasher

The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, has raised alarms about the risk of repeating the severe atrocities that occurred in El Fasher, Darfur. He indicated that Kordofan may be facing a similar humanitarian crisis as violence escalates in the region.

In a statement to the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva, Turk characterized the events in El Fasher as a "disaster that could have been avoided," expressing deep concern that similar violations could spread to Kordofan, particularly in light of the recent surge in armed conflict following the unrest in El Fasher.

Turk detailed that his office has consistently documented alarming patterns of serious crimes, including an assault by the Rapid Support Forces aimed at capturing the Zamzam camp for displaced individuals. This attack reportedly resulted in thousands of fatalities within days and forced tens of thousands of civilians to flee in fear.

The High Commissioner asserted that these actions constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity, a view that aligns with findings from the International Criminal Court regarding the incidents in El Fasher.

He emphasized that the responsibility for these atrocities rests with the Rapid Support Forces, their allies, and those providing them with support. Turk called for accountability for the perpetrators to ensure that such tragedies do not occur in other regions of Sudan.

In closing, Turk made a direct appeal to the international community, urging enhanced and effective measures to protect civilians, halt ongoing violations, and prevent Kordofan from descending into a violent scenario akin to that witnessed in El Fasher.