UN calls for immediate end to escalating conflict in Sudan’s Al-Fashir

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed his deep concern about an alleged major attack by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on the Sudanese city of al-Fashir. He called on the RSF chief to stop the offensive immediately.

Guterres warned that further escalation could spread the conflict to the entire western Darfur region of Sudan. The conflict between the Sudanese army and RSF, which began in April last year, has already triggered the world's largest refugee crisis.

US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said the ongoing conflict would be discussed at President Joe Biden's upcoming meeting with United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Allegations that the UAE is arming the RSF have complicated the situation. The UN Security Council called for an immediate end to the siege of al-Fashir and the withdrawal of all fighters who threaten the safety of civilians.

(With contributions from agencies.)