UN Alarmed by "Terrifying" Situation in Sudan's El Fasher, Calls for Immediate Ceasefire

Strategic Insights -

The United Nations (UN) has expressed deep alarm at the situation in Sudan's El Fasher, a city under siege for over a year, where civilians are being trapped and terrorized by fierce fighting between warring factions. Tom Fletcher, UN Emergency Relief Coordinator, has called for an immediate ceasefire in El Fasher, across Darfur, and throughout Sudan, to ensure the safe passage of civilians and the protection of humanitarian workers. The conflict has resulted in one of the world's worst humanitarian crises, displacing over 11.7 million people, including 4.2 million refugees in neighboring countries.

Key Takeaways:

  • Tom Fletcher, UN Emergency Relief Coordinator, stated that the situation in El Fasher is "deeply alarming" with reports of civilian casualties and forced displacement due to fierce fighting.
  • The city has been under siege for more than a year, with the RSF, a paramilitary group, claiming control of the city after seizing the army's Sixth Division headquarters.
  • The conflict has resulted in over 11.7 million displaced people, including 4.2 million refugees in neighboring countries, according to UN figures.
  • Widespread civilian casualties have been reported, including at least 20 people killed in strikes on a mosque and the Saudi hospital, the city's last functioning medical facility.
  • Tom Fletcher condemned the targeting of civilians, hospitals, and humanitarian operations, urging all parties to respect international law and hold perpetrators accountable.
  • The UN has reiterated the obligations set out under Security Council resolution 2736 (2024), demanding an end to the siege of El Fasher, protection of civilians, and unhindered humanitarian access across Sudan.

Statistics:

  • Over 11.7 million people displaced in the conflict, according to UN figures.
  • 4.2 million refugees in neighboring countries, according to UN figures.
  • At least 20 people killed in strikes on a mosque and the Saudi hospital.
  • Nearly 100 civilian deaths in September.
  • 100% increase in civilian casualties since the conflict began in April 2023.
  • El Fasher under siege for more than a year.

Sources:

  • M2 PressWIRE - October 27, 2025
  • UN Emergency Relief Coordinator, Tom Fletcher