UN officials have condemned the actions of Sudanese rebels during an 18-month siege in the city of el-Fasher, highlighting that the campaign displays 'hallmarks of genocide'. The report details atrocities committed by the Rapid Support Forces, including mass killings, starvation tactics, and brutal human rights violations against non-Arab communities. This siege, which escalated to the capture of the city in October 2024, has resulted in the deaths of over half the city's population, raising alarm among international bodies regarding the urgent need for accountability.

The report by an independent fact-finding mission including writer Mona Rishmawi describes a horrific landscape marked by systematic violence, including rape and torture. The findings underline the coordinated efforts by Arab militias to eliminate non-Arab populations in the region, a critical point that has triggered discussions about potential international criminal investigations. The deprivation of essential resources and aid exacerbated the humanitarian crisis, plunging survivor communities further into despair and instability.

Amid these revelations, UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has called for immediate action from the global community, emphasizing the need for a thorough criminal probe into the conduct of the Rapid Support Forces and associated groups. This situation not only demands an urgent response to prevent further loss of life but also challenges the international community's commitment to human rights and protection for vulnerable populations caught in violent conflicts. The implications of this report extend beyond Sudan, as they pose pressing questions about global intervention and the effectiveness of existing international frameworks in preventing genocide and protecting human rights.