Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have issued a 48-hour ultimatum for armed groups in El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur state, to surrender and leave the city, promising safe treatment and immediate release.
The RSF, led by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, issued the demand in a statement dated January 20, 2025.
“All fighters in El Fasher must surrender and vacate the city within 48 hours,” the statement read. The RSF assured humane treatment for those who comply, vowing no retaliation and immediate freedom.
The RSF addressed the militants, many of whom it described as marginalized individuals coerced into combat by General al-Burhan’s forces (SAF) loyalists and Islamist factions, urging them to “lay down their arms and leave military positions.” The statement warned that after the deadline, the RSF would respond decisively, leaving “no excuse for those who fail to heed the warning.”
This ultimatum comes amid escalating tensions in Sudan, where the RSF and General al-Burhan’s SAF have been locked in a violent power struggle since April 2023. The conflict has devastated Darfur, with mass displacement, ethnic violence, and allegations of atrocities by both sides.
El Fasher, a key city in North Darfur, has been a battleground throughout the conflict. The RSF’s latest move signals its intent to consolidate control over strategic urban centers in the region.
The United Nations and humanitarian organizations have raised concerns about the impact of the fighting on civilians, warning of a deepening humanitarian crisis. Tens of thousands of residents in El Fasher have already fled, and aid operations remain severely constrained.
The RSF concluded its statement with condolences for its fallen members, vowing to continue its campaign against what it referred to as the “terrorist Islamic Movement.”
The situation in El Fasher remains volatile, with no immediate response from the SAF or armed militant groups operating in the area.vThe United Nations and humanitarian organizations have raised concerns about the impact of the fighting on civilians, warning of a deepening humanitarian crisis. Tens of thousands of residents in El Fasher have already fled, and aid operations remain severely constrained.
The RSF concluded its statement with condolences for its fallen members, vowing to continue its campaign against what it referred to as the “terrorist Islamic Movement.”
The situation in El Fasher remains volatile, with no immediate response from the SAF or armed militant groups operating in the area.
