Sudan’s ongoing war between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has plunged the country into a worsening humanitarian crisis, exacerbated by escalating violence, mass displacement, and heavy seasonal rains, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) warned on Monday.

More than 27 months into the conflict, over 30 million people—half of Sudan’s population—urgently need aid and protection. The crisis has reached critical levels in multiple regions, with renewed fighting threatening lives and humanitarian operations.  El Fasher Faces New Wave of ViolenceIn El Fasher, the besieged capital of North Darfur, intense clashes have erupted, with RSF fighters entering the city on Friday for the first time in over a year. Fierce fighting in the southwest and eastern districts has led to civilian casualties and heightened fears of further violence and displacement.  OCHA described the situation as “highly volatile and unpredictable,” warning that renewed hostilities could disrupt humanitarian efforts and force more people from their homes.

In North Kordofan state, surging violence has displaced at least 3,400 people over the weekend, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM). Local reports confirm 18 civilian deaths and widespread destruction, with homes set ablaze in several villages.  OCHA condemned attacks on civilians and infrastructure, which violate international humanitarian law, and called on all parties to protect lives and allow unhindered aid access.

The onset of the rainy season is worsening conditions, particularly in West and Central Darfur, where heavy rainfall is rendering roads impassable and threatening humanitarian supply lines. OCHA warned that floods, disease outbreaks, and food shortages are likely to intensify through October, coinciding with the lean season when food reserves are critically low.

Despite the dire situation, small signs of hope have emerged in West Darfur. Displaced families are returning from Chad to areas like Sirba, Jebel Moon, and Kulbus to resume farming. Local authorities report approximately 40 returnees daily in Kulbus, with 300 recorded last week. However, aid groups stress the need for robust infrastructure, protection, and humanitarian support to sustain these returns and prevent further displacement.

OCHA renewed its urgent call for safe humanitarian access and increased international funding to support life-saving operations. As Sudan grapples with the devastating toll of prolonged conflict, the international community faces mounting pressure to act swiftly to prevent further catastrophe. (ILKHA)