In recent days, the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, which have surrounded the capital of North Darfur for four months, have launched an unprecedented offensive on the city. El-Fasher is the last major city in the region still controlled by the army, which benefits from the support of various local rebel groups.
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The offensive against El-Fasher, the capital of North Darfur, began last Thursday morning. After surrounding the city for four monthsthe Rapid Support Forces (RSF) attacked on several fronts. After successfully infiltrating the south of the city, they reached the vicinity of the army headquarters.
Residents of the city speak of street fighting, followed by intense bombings throughout the weekend. As a result, the destruction is now very significant, as Salih Mahmoud, president of the Darfur Lawyers Association, explains: There is destruction all over the city. Previously, we heard that the paramilitaries had stormed from the north, east, and west, but now the attacks are coming from all directions and the residents are trapped. Those who still wanted to leave can no longer do so, there is no longer a safe road. “.
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Mohamed Hassan, a member of the Darfur Human Rights Network, says that some neighborhoods are now completely deserted: ” Most of them, especially in the east and north of El-Fasher, have been destroyed by both sides – the army and the RSF. The Rapid Support Forces are firing rockets from outside the city, 10 to 15 km from here. »
While it is unclear whether the paramilitaries have gained ground, they have suffered losses. According to several sources, at least four FSR commanders died during the fighting.
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