Sudan’s El Fasher: UN Report Reveals Evidence of Genocide, Escalating Crisis
A United Nations investigation has concluded that “acts of genocide” have been committed in El Fasher, Sudan, following its capture by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in late October 2025. The findings, released on February 19, 2026, detail systematic violence targeting non-Arab communities, raising alarm about the escalating humanitarian crisis and the urgent need for international intervention.
The Findings: Systematic Violence and Intent
The UN’s independent fact-finding mission on Sudan determined that the actions of the RSF in and around El Fasher demonstrate “the hallmarks of genocide.” This conclusion stems from evidence of targeted killings based on ethnicity, sexual violence, widespread destruction, and explicit public statements calling for the elimination of non-Arab communities, particularly the Zaghawa and Fur.
Mohamad Chande Othman, chair of the mission, emphasized that the scale, coordination, and public support for the operation indicate these were not isolated acts of war. The report highlights at least three acts constituting genocide: the killing of members of a protected ethnic group, inflicting severe physical and mental harm, and deliberately imposing conditions of life intended to destroy the group.
Kordofan as the Novel Frontline
The conflict is now intensifying in the Kordofan region, bordering Darfur. This fertile and oil-rich area has become the primary battleground between the Sudanese army and the RSF. Recent attacks, including a strike on a displacement camp, have resulted in the deaths of at least 15 children, according to UNICEF, and another market strike killed at least 28 people.
Prior to the fall of El Fasher, an 18-month siege systematically weakened the population through famine, deprivation, and trauma, leaving them vulnerable to the subsequent violence.
International Response and Sanctions
The UN report has prompted calls for a “strong response from the Security Council.” The United States, the United Kingdom, and the European Union have already announced sanctions against RSF commanders accused of leading the atrocities in El Fasher.
“When there is evidence of genocide, the international community has an increased obligation to prevent, protect, and ensure accountability,” stated Othman. Without effective prevention and accountability measures, the risk of further acts of genocide remains “grave and persistent.”
The Humanitarian Crisis: A Nation in Peril
The ongoing conflict has created a catastrophic humanitarian situation in Sudan. Nearly three years of war have resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and displaced over 11 million people, making it the “worst humanitarian crisis in the world,” according to the UN. The initial three days of the offensive in El Fasher saw thousands killed, raped, or disappeared.
What Does This Mean for the Future of Sudan?
The UN report serves as a stark warning about the potential for further atrocities in Sudan. The escalating violence in Kordofan, coupled with the RSF’s demonstrated intent to target specific ethnic groups, suggests that the situation could deteriorate rapidly without decisive international action.
The focus now shifts to the Security Council and its ability to implement effective measures to protect civilians, hold perpetrators accountable, and facilitate a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The international community faces a critical test in preventing further loss of life and averting a potential genocide.
FAQ
What are the RSF? The Rapid Support Forces are a paramilitary group in Sudan that has been fighting the Sudanese army since April 2023.
What is genocide, according to the UN report? The report defines acts of genocide as targeted killings based on ethnicity, sexual violence, destruction, and public calls for the elimination of specific communities.
What is the situation in Kordofan? Kordofan has become the new frontline in the conflict, with increased fighting and attacks on civilians, including displacement camps and markets.
What actions have been taken in response to the report? The US, UK, and EU have imposed sanctions on RSF commanders. There are calls for a stronger response from the UN Security Council.
Did you understand? The UN report details that at least 6,000 people were killed in the first three days of the RSF offensive in El Fasher.
