### Sudan's Civil War Escalates: RSF Takes Control of Darfur Sudan's ongoing civil war has reached a critical juncture as the paramilitary group Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has successfully seized control of the entire Darfur region, including the strategic city of El Fasher, which was the last stronghold of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) in the area. This development marks a significant escalation in the conflict that has already resulted in over 40,000 deaths and displaced more than 14 million people, leading to a dire humanitarian crisis. The RSF, led by Gen. Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, has historical ties to the Darfur genocide and has been accused of committing numerous atrocities during the conflict. The capture of El Fasher raises concerns about the potential fragmentation of Sudan, reminiscent of the country's split that led to the independence of South Sudan nearly 15 years ago [https://apnews.com/article/sudan-rsf-war-darfur-d22aba25401c5e4981b9ddd9612d5ecd]. ### Structure of the Current Situation in Sudan 1. **Conflict Background** - The civil war in Sudan began in April 2023, primarily driven by power struggles between the RSF and the Sudanese military. - The RSF's roots trace back to the Darfur genocide, and its actions have been linked to widespread human rights violations [https://www.thestar.com/news/world/africa/sudan-war-takes-a-turn-as-paramilitary-force-captures-darfur-threatening-to-split-the-country/article_2eae82b2-9a7a-522e-9b88-dcb7c143c88c.html]. 2. **Recent Developments** - The RSF's takeover of El Fasher has been described as a "terrible escalation" in the conflict, with reports of civilian casualties and atrocities, including summary executions and sexual violence [https://apnews.com/article/sudan-miliary-rsf-war-darfur-fasher-82e1906ae7119b4bd3eae13ec45184fa]. - The Sudanese military has retreated from El Fasher to protect civilians, further solidifying the RSF's control over the region [https://dnyuz.com/2025/10/28/sudans-military-withdraws-from-key-city-in-darfur-after-monthlong-battle]. 3. **Humanitarian Impact** - The conflict has created a severe humanitarian crisis, with millions displaced and in need of assistance. The UN has reported alarming conditions for civilians trapped in conflict zones [https://www.channel4.com/news/major-escalation-in-sudan-war-as-rsf-claims-all-of-darfur]. - Medical groups have documented numerous civilian deaths and the destruction of health facilities, exacerbating the crisis [https://www.mid-day.com/news/world-news/article/sudan-conflict-intensifies-as-rsf-seizes-key-military-base-in-el-fasher-dozens-killed-23600522/?lifestyle-culture-article-breakingnews]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Casualties and Displacement** - Over **40,000** people have died since the conflict began in April 2023. - More than **14 million** individuals have been displaced, creating one of the world's most severe humanitarian crises [https://apnews.com/article/sudan-rsf-war-darfur-d22aba25401c5e4981b9ddd9612d5ecd]. - **Atrocities Reported** - Reports indicate that RSF fighters have killed dozens of civilians and detained hundreds since taking control of El Fasher [https://apnews.com/article/sudan-miliary-rsf-war-darfur-fasher-82e1906ae7119b4bd3eae13ec45184fa]. - The UN has documented instances of summary executions and sexual violence against civilians [https://apnews.com/article/sudan-miliary-rsf-war-darfur-fasher-82e1906ae7119b4bd3eae13ec45184fa]. ### Conclusion: A Nation on the Brink of Division The recent developments in Sudan, particularly the RSF's capture of El Fasher, signify a **decisive shift** in the ongoing civil war, with potential implications for the country's future stability. The situation can be summarized as follows: 1. **Escalation of Conflict**: The RSF's control over Darfur represents a major escalation in the civil war, raising fears of further violence and humanitarian crises. 2. **Humanitarian Crisis**: The conflict has resulted in significant civilian casualties and displacement, with urgent humanitarian needs unmet. 3. **Potential for Division**: The capture of El Fasher could entrench geographical divisions within Sudan, threatening the nation's unity and stability [https://www.thestar.com/news/world/africa/sudan-war-takes-a-turn-as-paramilitary-force-captures-darfur-threatening-to-split-the-country/article_2eae82b2-9a7a-522e-9b88-dcb7c143c88c.html]. The international community must respond urgently to address the humanitarian needs and seek a resolution to the conflict to prevent further deterioration of the situation in Sudan.