Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) takes control of famine-hit Zamzam camp amid escalating violence

In a significant move marked by violence and chaos, Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) announced on Sunday that it has taken control of the famine-stricken Zamzam camp in western Darfur. This operation followed two days of relentless heavy shelling and gunfire that reportedly resulted in the deaths of at least 100 individuals, including children and humanitarian aid workers. The RSF claimed their actions were necessary to 'liberate' the camp from the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), asserting they have deployed military units to protect civilians and humanitarian medical personnel. However, these claims are met with skepticism. Reports from the United Nations indicated that more than 100 people were feared dead due to RSF attacks, while local officials associated with the army suggest the death toll could be four times higher. This presents a grim picture of the state of warfare not just between military factions, but also amidst vulnerable civilian populations. The RSF further defended its assaults by claiming that the SAF was utilizing civilians as 'human shields' to protect military bases. Such assertions have done little to quell widespread condemnation from humanitarian organizations and rights groups, which have accused the RSF of employing brutal sexual violence against civilians as a weapon during this conflict. The ongoing hostilities escalated following a recent army victory in Khartoum, indicating a strategic shift where the RSF is now targeting refugee camps to solidify control over the beleaguered province of Darfur. This conflict, with its resultant socio-economic fallout, has divided Sudan, leaving the army in control of its northern and eastern regions, while the RSF dominates Darfur and parts of the south. Amid this turmoil, the humanitarian situation has reached catastrophic levels, characterized by famine and displacement. With around 25 million individuals, or half of Sudan's population, currently facing acute hunger, the implications of this conflict stretch well beyond military confrontations, painting a dire picture of humanity in crisis.