International concern about the conditions of civilians in El Fasher, North Darfur

The office referred to a statement issued by the Rapid Support Forces on January 20, which included an ultimatum for forces allied with the Sudanese Armed Forces to leave the city by noon on Wednesday, indicating an imminent attack.

Saif Magango, spokesman for the United Nations Human Rights Office, said that the Sudanese Armed Forces – in their response – expressed their readiness to resist the attack. He pointed out that El Fasher has been under siege by the Rapid Support Forces since May of last year.

The spokesman renewed the call on both parties to calm tensions around the city and take urgent steps to ensure the protection of its civilian population, consistent with their obligations under international law. He said that the residents of El Fasher have already suffered greatly from many months of senseless violence, violations and brutal abuses, especially in the context of the prolonged siege of their city.

He stressed the need for this to stop, and urged both parties to return to dialogue, for the benefit of the Sudanese people.