In the heart of Sudan, a devastating conflict has escalated, drawing international attention to the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region. The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have been accused of executing civilians in El-Fasher after seizing control from the Sudanese army. This development has sparked widespread condemnation and calls for global intervention.
Alarming Reports from El-Fasher
Franklin Graham, head of Samaritan’s Purse, has voiced strong criticism against the RSF, referring to their actions as the “face of radical Islam.” After receiving graphic videos depicting executions by paramilitary fighters, Graham urged prayers for the civilian victims. The footage, according to reports, showed individuals being executed, and Graham stated, “This is the face of radical Islam. We’ve been working in Sudan for over 30 years, and our hearts break for this country.”
The RSF captured El-Fasher, the last stronghold of the Sudanese government in Darfur, after months of intense conflict, according to The Associated Press. The ongoing war, which began in April 2023, has resulted in over 40,000 deaths and displaced more than 14 million people.
On Wednesday, the Sudanese government reported the deaths of over 2,000 civilians since RSF’s incursion into the city. Verified videos reveal RSF fighters executing unarmed captives, drawing international outrage.
International Reactions and Human Rights Violations
Denise Brown, the United Nations coordinator for Sudan, confirmed receiving “credible reports of summary executions” in El-Fasher. The BBC has verified some of these executions, uncovering the grim reality of RSF’s occupation. Satellite images reviewed by the Yale Humanitarian Research Lab show evidence of mass killings.
Christian Solidarity Worldwide, based in the UK, has called for “urgent international action” in response to the atrocities. Mervyn Thomas, the organization’s founder, expressed deep concern over the situation, highlighting the involvement of child soldiers in RSF’s ranks.
The RSF’s Troubling Legacy
Led by Gen. Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, also known as Hemedti, the RSF has its roots in the infamous Janjaweed militia, responsible for the Darfur genocide in the early 2000s. Dagalo expanded the RSF by incorporating Arab militias and securing financial backing through livestock and gold mining.
The RSF’s involvement in conflicts extends beyond Sudan, with participation in Yemen and Libya, and support from countries including the United Arab Emirates. The Sudanese army has accused the UAE of breaching the Genocide Convention by backing the RSF, a claim the UAE denies as a “publicity stunt.”
Current State of Conflict
The war in Sudan continues to evolve, with both the RSF and the Sudanese army using foreign weapons and fighters. The RSF’s recent offensives in Darfur threaten the country’s stability, as they declare intentions to form a parallel government in regions they control.
Currently, the Sudanese army holds the north and east, including Khartoum, while the RSF controls much of Darfur and Kordofan. The legacy of violence from the Janjaweed era casts a long shadow over present-day conflicts, as reported by the BBC.
This article was originally written by www.christianpost.com
