The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has taken control of Nyala, Sudan’s second-largest city, after months of fighting against the army. While some residents are celebrating this development, hoping it will bring an end to the violence, there are significant concerns about the impact on the civilian population and the potential for a humanitarian crisis. Over 670,000 people have already been forced to flee their homes, and the city’s hospitals have been destroyed. Bodies are reportedly lining the streets, indicating the severity of the conflict.
Nyala is a strategically important city that connects Sudan with the Central African Republic (CAR), making this seizure significant for the RSF. However, the RSF has been accused of committing atrocities against non-Arabic groups during the conflict, raising concerns about the safety and well-being of the local population. The RSF’s second-in-command, Abdulrahim Daglo, who has been sanctioned by the US for alleged involvement in ethnic cleansing in West Darfur, led the capture of Nyala.
Eyewitnesses have reported instances of looting and violence against civilians by the RSF since they took control of the city. This further intensifies concerns about the protection of human rights and the potential for widespread abuses under the RSF’s rule. EMERGENCY, a medical organization providing treatment to war victims, has expressed worry as its Sudanese staff members were arrested by the RSF and taken from a pediatric center in Nyala.
Another cause for concern is the alleged involvement of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in supplying weapons to the RSF through CAR and Chad’s Um-Dafog. While the UAE denies these accusations, the claim raises questions about the international implications of the conflict and the potential for further destabilization in the region.
With this seizure occurring just as peace talks were set to resume, the future of the negotiations remains uncertain. The army has not yet commented on its defeat in Nyala, and it is unclear how this will impact the overall dynamics of the conflict. It is essential for the international community to closely monitor the situation and work towards a peaceful resolution that prioritizes the safety and rights of the Sudanese people.
The seizure of Nyala emphasizes the urgent need for humanitarian assistance in the region. The destruction of hospitals and the displacement of hundreds of thousands of people will likely worsen the existing crisis. International organizations and governments must collaborate to provide immediate aid and ensure the well-being of those affected by the conflict.
The situation in Nyala serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by Sudan and the fragility of peace processes in the country. It highlights the importance of addressing underlying issues, such as ethnic tensions and regional power struggles, to achieve long-term stability. Swift action and sustained international engagement are crucial to preventing further violence and facilitating a path towards lasting peace in Sudan.
