The RSF has launched renewed attacks on the Zamzam camp in North Darfur, prompting calls for arms to defend displaced persons. MSF has urgently requested safe passage for civilians, while reports indicate widespread atrocities and a humanitarian crisis. The violence threatens the safety of hundreds of thousands in the region and underscores the dire need for immediate international intervention.
On February 12, 2025, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) intensified their assault on the Zamzam camp in North Darfur, prompting a distressing response from Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) for the protection of civilians. The governor of Darfur, Minni Arko Minawi, urged residents to take up arms to defend the displaced population against what he termed the brutality of the RSF militia. The fighting has created further instability, resulting in civilians enduring dire conditions amid growing violence.
The RSF’s renewed offensive commenced with a brutal attack on the Zamzam camp, leading to extensive damage, including the burning of the primary market, and the looting of vehicles belonging to the displaced. Military defenses, including the army and Joint Forces, successfully repelled the assault. Eyewitness accounts indicate persistent explosions and fires within the camp as thousands attempt to escape towards El Fasher, many suffering injuries.
The Coordination of Displaced Persons and Refugees condemned the RSF’s actions, labeling the incident a massacre and a war crime. Spokesman Adam Regal vividly described the grim aftermath of the attack, with bloodied streets and traumatized women and children. He urged the international community for immediate intervention to protect the displaced and hold the perpetrators accountable.
Concerns are escalating among the displaced population regarding potential ethnic cleansing by the RSF should they seize control of the camp. This sentiment echoes memories of previous tragedies in West Darfur, where similar circumstances occurred. The RSF previously justified their attacks on the camp by alleging that the joint forces had sought refuge within it, an assertion denied by the joint force itself.
Amidst the chaos, MSF has called for the immediate safeguarding of civilians and medical personnel, emphasizing their vital role in providing care. The organization’s hospital in Zamzam has faced a dramatic increase in patients amid the violence, yet lacks the capacity for trauma surgery. MSF expressed deep unease over the safety of both the civilians and their health staff during these violent confrontations.
The situation in the Zamzam camp is critical as the RSF continues its violent attacks, prompting urgent calls for protection from local authorities and humanitarian organizations. The cycle of violence endangers the lives of thousands of displaced people already suffering from dire conditions. As international condemnation mounts, the need for protective measures and humanitarian aid becomes increasingly urgent to prevent further escalation of atrocities in the region.
Original Source: sudantribune.com
