El-fasher: The African Union (AU) Peace and Security Council on Thursday called for an immediate and unconditional cessation of hostilities in El-Fasher, the capital of Sudan's North Darfur State, following its capture by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
According to Kuwait News Agency, the Council issued a statement on X condemning in strong terms the grave violations of human rights and international humanitarian law attributed to the RSF. The statement urged the RSF commander to fully comply with humanitarian law and ensure the protection of civilians in the region.
The Council warned that those responsible for these violations would be held accountable. It also called for the establishment of safe humanitarian corridors to allow the delivery of life-saving aid to the residents of El-Fasher. Additionally, the AU Commission was tasked with monitoring these violations and reporting back within three weeks, along with proposing measures to enhance civilian protection.
Furthermore, the statement called for an urgent meeting involving the AU, United Nations, Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), and the Sudan Quartet. The aim of this meeting would be to coordinate efforts and establish a mechanism for achieving a lasting ceasefire.
El-Fasher has recently experienced one of the deadliest episodes since the conflict began. The World Health Organization reported that over 460 people were killed, including patients and companions, at the Saudi Maternity Hospital due to attacks and the abductions of medical staff.