The militia employed deadly missiles, artillery, and bombs, some of which are internationally banned, to target civilians.

By alhakika Last updated Nov 24, 2023

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful
El Haqeeqa
The first electronic magazine dedicated to documenting and monitoring the violations of the Rapid Support Forces militia– Published in three languages.
Issue 9 – December 2023
Introduction
During the period when the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) declared their willingness to engage in renewed negotiations with the rebel Rapid Support Forces militia, following the initiative of Saudi Arabia and the United States as mediators in the Jeddah platform, there was a shared belief that negotiation could potentially bring an end to the war. The Sudanese Armed Forces agreed to proceed to Jeddah to build upon previous agreements, specifically the full implementation of the Jeddah Declaration. This declaration aimed to facilitate humanitarian efforts and restore normalcy in cities impacted by the militia’s actions, which included looting, deliberately setting fire to properties,indiscriminate bombing, and assaults.Despite hopes for the militia’s compliance with the agreement, their failure to adhere to the Jeddah Declaration led to a cessation of negotiations, limiting the resolution to providing aid only. Meanwhile, the Rapid Support Forces militia escalated its hostile activities in several Darfur states, committing severe human rights violations against unarmed civilians. These included acts of genocide, ethnic cleansing, and forced displacement in areas such as El Geneina,El-Fasher, Nyala, and Zalingei.

The militia has been accused of committing further atrocities, including sexual assaults against women and girls in various displacement camps across the Darfur region. They have also been responsible for the targeted killings of tribal leaders, destruction of crucial infrastructure, and rampant looting and burning of homes and markets.
In addition to these grave actions, the militia has enforced a blockade on residents in the “Al-Futihab and Al-Shajara” areas of Khartoum State, denying them access to essential food and medical supplies, a clear breach of human rights. They have used mortar bombs and white phosphorus against civilians and reportedly executed prisoners from the Sudanese army, contravening international laws and standards. The militia’s actions also include unlawful arrests and torture of civilians.
Furthermore, the militia has deliberately targeted the healthcare sector and infrastructure as part of its ongoing offensive. These actions have drawn condemnation from the United States, various human rights organizations, and entities for the violations committed by the Rapid Support Forces militia and its allied forces in numerous Sudanese states.
“El Haqeeqa” is a dedicated platform focused on tracking and documenting the violations of the Rapid Support Forces militia against the Sudanese people. It serves as a resource for international human rights organizations, providing accurate and verified information from official and reliable sources. “The Eye of El Haqeeqa” represents an effort to monitor official initiatives aimed at restoring the dignity of the Sudanese people whose rights have been compromised.

This issue of “El Haqeeqa” focuses on the recent crimes and violations committed by the rebel Rapid Support Forces militia , adding to their growing record of offenses.
The publication highlights:
The mass exodus of hundreds of thousands of people.
The disdainful behavior of Arab fighters towards Africans, derogatorily referring to them as “slaves.”
Survivors risking their lives amidst the violence.
People being killed in their homes, on the streets, and in mosques.
Regarding militia crimes in the Darfur and Kordofan states, Reuters reports:
The Masalit tribe, of African origin, has faced systematic attacks by the Rapid Support Forces and their allied militias. In El Geneina city, it’s reported that at least “1,000” bodies were interred in El Ghaba cemetery, now filled with hastily dug mass graves.
To conceal their actions, the militia buried the dead at night, often placing multiple bodies in a single grave. This necessitated forgoing traditional Islamic burial rites, resulting in fathers, mothers, sons, daughters, and neighbors being buried together. The condition of the bodies reflected the violent nature of their deaths, with some being burned beyond recognition.
Evidence from accounts and satellite imagery indicates a targeted ethnic cleansing campaign against the dark-skinned Masalit tribe, who regard West Darfur as their ancestral land.
Additionally, the United States condemned the Rapid Support Forces militia ‘s violations in Nyala in a statement dated November 2, 2023, and urged for an immediate cessation of attacks on El Fasher.
On November 5, 2023, Sudanese media outlets reported that the Rapid Support Forces executed 85-year-old Muhammad Arbab, a prominent figure in the native administration, and his son in Erdemta following their takeover of the 15th Infantry Division’s leadership. Witnesses reported that the Forces invaded Erdemta neighborhoods, entering civilian homes, capturing, and killing hundreds, including Muhammad Arbab, with many still missing. Toby Harrod, the Deputy United Nations Coordinator for Humanitarian Affairs in Sudan, described the Erdemta incident as horrifying.
The Democratic Alliance for Social Justice, in a statement on November 7, 2023, indicated that the Rapid Support Forces were responsible for the deaths of “2,000” citizens, injuries to at least “3,000,” and the displacement of thousands from Erdemta. The alliance highlighted that the militia specifically targeted those fleeing genocide, including women and children.
The United Nations Integrated Mission to Support the Transitional Phase in Sudan (UNITAMS) reported serious human rights violations by the Rapid Support Forces and their allies in West Darfur, particularly in the “Ardamta” area of El Geneina. They were responsible for civilian deaths and injuries, particularly targeting the Masalit tribe. Additionally, the Forces conducted a campaign of arrests and detentions in El Geneina, West Darfur, targeting individuals suspected of cooperating with the army before their control of the “15” Division.
On the same note, the Sudanese newspaper Kawalis reported on November 7, 2023, that the Rapid Support Forces militia committed violence in the village of Abu Hamra Al-Quz in North Kordofan, resulting in the deaths and injuries of dozens, along with looting and arson.
Furthermore, the Youth for Darfur Organization (Mashad) reported that the militia invaded Nyala, causing death and injuries to hundreds, and triggering mass evacuations due to fears of ethnic cleansing. The militia was also accused of burning homes, markets, and hospitals. On the same date, Mashad revealed that the militia assaulted the Umm Kadada area in North Darfur, perpetrating killings, and destroying homes and markets.
Radio Dabanga reported the following:
Armed militias, following the Rapid Support Forces’ takeover of the “21st” Division headquarters, invaded the Hasahisa camp in Zalingei.
Sheikh Abdel Razzaq Youssef, a displaced leaders’ representative in Zalingei, disclosed to Radio Dabanga about the killing of dozens, a wave of arrests, and widespread looting, burning, and attacks in the camp. He also noted the presence of many bodies scattered on the camp’s roads and inside houses.
A significant number of Al-Hasahisa camp residents were displaced due to the attack, moving to Saraf Umra, Zalingei city, and the Al-Hamidiyah camp, with many families’ whereabouts still unknown.
The International Organization for Migration’s Displacement Tracking Matrix reported that approximately “13” thousand displaced people (2,600 families) relocated to the Hamidiya camp in Zalingei locality on Tuesday. Additionally, about 3,250 displaced people (650 families) were seeking shelter in various parts of Zalingei city.
In October, the British government accused the Rapid Support Forces militia and its allied groups of committing “genocide” in the Darfur region, citing documentation of “89” attacks and fires on African villages.
A BBC article covered the British government’s investigation, which included:
The investigation revealed that some of the attacks were conducted by the Beni Halba groups, supported by the Rapid Support.
The BBC reported that the investigation utilized satellite imagery and analysis of open-source data from social media.
The report concluded:
The situation in Darfur involves innocent civilians being targeted by militias, particularly the Rapid Support Forces. These civilians are forced from their homes, killed, women are sexually assaulted, homes are set ablaze, and crops and livestock are destroyed.
The report emphasized that these actions display all the hallmarks of ethnic cleansing.
On November 10, 2023, the British government released a statement expressing deep concern over the reports of violence against men and girls, including extrajudicial killings in El Geneina and Erdemta, specifically mentioning the killing of Al-Farsha Muhammad Arbab. Following this, on November 13, the European Union announced that the death toll among civilians had surpassed “1,000” people and expressed alarm over the genocide crimes committed by the Rapid Support Forces in Darfur.

“El Haqeeqa” documented the following:

The militia employed deadly missiles, artillery, and bombs, some of which are internationally banned, to target civilians.
The use of white phosphorus by the Rapid Support in the Jabal Awliya area was reported.

The Foundation for Defending Rights and Freedoms (FDRF) provided details:

The FDRF, through field follow-ups, video clips, and eyewitness accounts, verified the use of white phosphorus in the neighborhoods of “Al-Hilla Al-Jadeeda, Al-Abbasiya, and Dar Al-Salam.”
Doctor Mohsen Al-Imam reported symptoms consistent with white phosphorus exposure, including shortness of breath and a garlic-like odor.
A resident (N.M.) experienced suffocation, shortness of breath, and skin redness, leading to permanent allergies due to exposure to the gas.
Weapons expert, retired Lieutenant Colonel Ibrahim Musa, indicated that the bombs were locally manufactured, with foreign expertise involved, and highlighted their inappropriate use in urban warfare.
Lawyer Suzan Mustafa, coordinator at FDRF, emphasized that the use of white phosphorus by Rapid Support in Jabal Awliya constitutes a war crime and a violation of international humanitarian law. The foundation gathered evidence and called for an international investigation, possibly by the International Criminal Court.
It’s important to note that white phosphorus is internationally prohibited against civilian targets under the Geneva Protocol and Convention, and its use is considered a war crime and a violation against civilians.
On October 16, 2023, the Sudan Tribune reported the following developments:
The Rapid Support Forces’ missile attacks have led to a significant displacement of residents from the revolution area. In North Omdurman, the number of people fleeing their homes has risen sharply due to the intensification of artillery and missile bombardment by the Rapid Support Forces targeting civilian areas.
Karari locality in northern Omdurman remains the only inhabited area in Omdurman, despite the ongoing war between the army and the Rapid Support Forces for six months. This is attributed to the presence of armed forces throughout the region.
Karari has become a refuge for large numbers of residents from Omdurman and Bahri, with many preferring to move to revolutionary neighborhoods rather than leave Khartoum due to the high cost of living and rental prices in areas unaffected by the war.
However, the situation in these neighborhoods has become critical as the Rapid Support Forces escalated their military actions toward Karari, bombarding most neighborhoods with heavy artillery and guided missiles. This resulted in numerous civilian casualties and forced many to abandon their homes in fear of being targeted.

The newspaper also noted specific incidents:

On September 28, an artillery attack by the Rapid Support Forces on a transportation station in the “Al-Jarrafa” area resulted in at least 9 deaths and several injuries.
On October 13, a bombing targeting several neighborhoods led to 17 fatalities.

Areas heavily affected by displacement due to shelling include neighborhoods 50, 52, 29, 8, 10, and 20.

Journalist Moamen Abu Al-Azaim, a resident of Al-Thawra in Karari locality, described the living conditions as perilous, stating that residents are constantly on edge due to the risk of stray bullets or random bombings altering the life of a family dramatically.

He highlighted the difficult choice residents face between the dangers of war and the high cost of relocating to safer states. He condemned the Rapid Support Forces’ indiscriminate bombing of residential areas as crimes against humanity and war crimes, in addition to their numerous other offenses.
Al-Azaim further reported:

The frequency of bombings has escalated recently, with up to 100 pounds of explosives being dropped daily in various areas of Al-Thawra near the military zone, especially in the northern countryside, including neighborhoods like Al-Waha, Al-Manara, Dalbakhit, and Al-Jarafa.
All neighborhoods of the revolution are under siege, with the first and second neighborhoods being the most affected. The rationale behind targeting these areas is twofold: firstly, the entire area is under army control, and secondly, the bombardments aim to force residents to evacuate so that their homes can be seized for military use and to facilitate penetration into these areas. The strategy is to exert pressure and encircle the army, a tactic they have been unable to implement in revolutions.

Abu Al-Azaim commented on the devastating impact of the Rapid Support Forces militia s’ indiscriminate bombardment, noting that it resulted in daily losses of neighbors and relatives. He mentioned the destruction of homes and key service institutions, including electricity, hospitals, and water stations, with Al-Nu Hospital being the last operating medical facility to be damaged.

He emphasized the increased suffering of citizens who have lost family members and neighbors, stating that their lives are constantly at risk, making displacement an unavoidable necessity. He also pointed out a noticeable rise in the number of displaced people in the north over the past two weeks.

Rawiya Othman, displaced from Al-Salha in south Omdurman to Al-Thawra District 29, shared her experience with the Sudan Tribune. She was forced to move to Nile River State after a three-month stay in Karari locality due to the danger posed by random shellings. She recounted the injuries her family suffered, including her husband losing a leg and her child sustaining serious injuries. The fear of high residential rents in other states initially kept them in Khartoum, but the continuous targeting eventually forced them to relocate.

Mustafa Babiker, a member of the local emergency room in Karari, accused the Rapid Support Forces of deliberately targeting civilian areas with heavy weaponry. He explained to the Sudan Tribune that the Forces fire missiles into neighborhoods to compel residents to move, allowing them to occupy and loot homes, converting them into military barracks for launching attacks towards the military zone in Karari. Babiker revealed a significant displacement from the revolutionary neighborhoods to the northern and Nile states, as well as eastern Sudan.

He also noted that in the past two weeks alone, they recorded over 200 people sustaining various injuries, and civilian deaths during this period reached at least 49, including children, women, and the elderly.

Zaqalona Market Massacre
On November 7, 2023, the Rapid Support Forces militia perpetrated a massacre by bombing the Zaqalona market in the “15” area of the hot revolution in Omdurman. The attack resulted in 12 fatalities, including 8 women, and approximately 20 individuals were injured and transported to Al-Naw Hospital. The shells hit the market when it was crowded with people seeking their livelihood and shoppers, with repeated and violent bombings occurring in a short period, targeting both the market and the adjacent residential area. The local community condemned these actions, labeling the incident at the Zaqalona market as a crime against humanity.

Documented Incidents:

The Sudanese Ministry of Health condemned the occupation of the Nyala Emergency Hospital by the Rapid Support Forces militia on October 27, 2023. Additionally, there were reports of looting at the Umm Kadada Hospital.
The Federal Ministry of Health criticized the militia’s ongoing targeting of health facilities, the most recent being the Italian Emergency Hospital in Nyala, South Darfur. The militia transformed this hospital into a military garrison and detained its staff, actions that contravene international laws and norms.
The Italian Emergency Hospital, established by the Italian Emergency Organization in 2020, provides comprehensive medical care services. This organization also founded Al-Salam Hospital in the Soba area of Khartoum State.
On October 22, 2023, the East Nile Emergency Room announced the temporary closure of Elban Jdeed Hospital following attacks by the Rapid Support Forces. This decision was made to ensure the safety of patients, volunteers, and workers, with the possibility of a permanent closure if further threats arise.
A member of the Rapid Support Forces physically assaulted a hospital doctor and fired shots near the hospital’s entrance, intimidating volunteers, workers, and medical staff.
The statement by the East Nile Emergency Room held the Rapid Support Forces accountable for ensuring the safety of volunteers and workers, particularly medical personnel, under the challenging conditions of war.
Hospitals in Khartoum are operating in difficult security environments with limited supplies, leaving them at risk of closure.
Al-Naw Hospital in Omdurman was temporarily shut down after being bombed by Rapid Support on October 9.
In October, Doctors Without Borders suspended surgical support at Bashaer Hospital in south Khartoum due to depletion of supplies and military blockades preventing resupply.
The organization also raised concerns about the dwindling supplies at the Turkish hospital in south Khartoum.
UNICEF delegate Mandeep O’Brien expressed grave concern over the attack on health workers and the looting of a pediatric center in Nyala.
On November 3, 2023, the Maamoura Resistance Committees reported the death of veterinarian Abdel-Hadith Ahmed Farah, attributing his killing to members of the Rapid Support Committees.
In Umm Kadada, citizens spoke to Radio Dabanga on November 9, 2023, revealing that the Rapid Support Forces had looted all medical equipment and refrigerators from the hospital, health care center, and private clinics in North Darfur State. The looting also extended to stores and homes before the forces withdrew from the city.
A citizen reported that this resulted in a complete halt of diagnostic and examination operations in all medical facilities. Solar energy systems were stolen from both the hospital and the local headquarters. Additionally, all refrigerators were taken from the hospital and health care center, leading to the destruction of immunization serums.
The same citizen noted that 65 vehicles were looted from markets and homes. The attacking forces also plundered food and goods from markets, raising concerns about an impending food crisis in the city. Furthermore, all furniture and office equipment were stolen from local and organization headquarters.
In a contrasting move, several Rapid Support leaders arrived in Umm Kadada after their forces’ withdrawal. They met with city notables, disavowing any connection to the attack and requesting an inventory of looted items for recovery, labeling the perpetrators as thieves. However, the Rapid Support Forces posted a video on their Telegram channel claiming responsibility for the attack on Umm Kadada garrison, led by a commander named Jeddo Hamdan Abu Shouk.
Documented Violations:
The Rapid Support Forces militia has been implicated in numerous rape cases in Al-Fasher and Zalingei. Sheikh Abdel Razzaq Youssef, a displaced leaders’ representative in Zalingei, disclosed to Radio Dabanga about “42” cases of rape occurring in the Hasahisa camp.
Kawalis newspaper reported additional rape crimes committed by the Rapid Support Forces militia in El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur State. These assaults included kidnapping, beating, and raping women, with incidents concentrated in the “al-Nahda and Masnaa neighborhoods” after the militia soldiers invaded. The victims were taken to El Fasher Southern Hospital for treatment.
The United Nations raised concerns on November 4, 2023, about the deteriorating situation in the Darfur region of western Sudan, especially regarding the abduction and enslavement-like conditions faced by women and girls.

Elizabeth Throssell, the spokeswoman for the UN Human Rights Office, expressed deep concern about reports of women and girls being abducted and held in conditions resembling slavery in areas under the control of the Rapid Support Forces in Darfur. She highlighted reports of forced marriages and ransoms, noting that credible information suggested that over 20 women and girls had been kidnapped, though the actual number might be higher. Throssell mentioned eyewitness accounts of women and girls being chained in vehicles.

Furthermore, the UN Joint Office for Human Rights in Sudan received credible reports of over “50” incidents of conflict-related sexual violence, affecting at least “105” victims, including “86” women, one man, and “18” children. Of these incidents, “23” were related to rape, “26” to gang rape, and three to attempted rape. Throssell emphasized that approximately “70” percent of the confirmed sexual violence incidents were attributed to men in Rapid Support Forces uniforms.

Documented Humanitarian Crisis:
On October 22, 2023, a statement from the Al-Fitaihab Emergency Room highlighted the dire situation in the Al-Fatihab and Al-Shajara areas due to the Rapid Support Forces’ siege. The blockade, which lasted over three months, prevented the entry of food and medical supplies, worsening the health and living conditions for the densely populated area, home to over 50,000 citizens. Al-Fitaihab is now considered a disaster zone, with an imminent threat of famine leading to a potential humanitarian catastrophe.

The statement described the closure of most hospitals and health centers, except those supervised by the emergency room, which are struggling with a lack of essential medications, first aid supplies, and laboratory materials. Medical staff are under extreme stress, having not received salaries for over six months. Markets in the region are mostly closed, with the “Um Defso” market lacking necessary goods like vegetables and meat.

Additionally, there has been a complete lack of water for about five months due to the shutdown of the Al-Mogran water station. The statement issued a distress call and an urgent humanitarian appeal to international and regional organizations for immediate intervention to save the citizens and prevent a humanitarian disaster. It also urged the Sudanese Armed Forces to open safe corridors for the entry of medicines and foodstuffs as soon as possible.

The Al Aylafoun Emergency Room, located east of Khartoum, disclosed that the town of Al-Ailafoun experienced significant upheaval following an invasion by the Rapid Support Forces. As a result, at least 15,000 residents were displaced, and ten individuals were killed in gunfire.

On October 5, the Rapid Support Forces seized control of Al-Aylafoun. The forces were accused of committing extensive violations against civilians, including killings, looting of stores, homes, and vehicles, and destruction of service facilities such as the power station.

A statement from the Al-Aylafoun Emergency Room on Saturday reported that the Rapid Support Forces stormed the city, resulting in ten deaths and 50 injuries, with at least 100 people missing. Approximately 15,000 residents have been displaced since the occupation. The statement also highlighted the plight of elderly, sick, and people with special needs who remain trapped in their homes, unable to leave safely. Some have died due to lack of food, medicine, and healthcare, with their families unable to bury them in cemeteries, forcing them to conceal the bodies in residential homes.

The statement underscored that the actions of the Rapid Support Forces in Al-Aylafoun could be classified as war crimes under international law. Al-Fatihab, a nearby area, has witnessed violent clashes between the army and the Rapid Support Forces, with artillery shelling by the latter causing civilian casualties and extensive property damage.

Residents of Al-Shajara, Al-Hammadab, Al-Lamab, and Al-Azozab areas in southern Khartoum have appealed to various authorities, including the Armed Forces, the President of the Sovereignty Council, and the Governor of Khartoum State, for assistance. They seek either the provision of essential consumer goods, including vegetables and meat, or the establishment of safe routes to acquire these items themselves. Their plea is a response to the blockade imposed by the Rapid Support Forces militia , which has led to a scarcity of basic goods and services in the region.

Documented Enforced Disappearances:
The Sudanese Group on Enforced Disappearances reported that it had tracked “715” cases of enforced disappearance across Sudan since the outbreak of war until mid-October. Their report, named “The Bermuda Triangle,” detailed the cities affected by the war, the demographics of the disappeared, and the timeline of these disappearances.

The group categorized the disappeared by gender, with 666 males (including 16 minors) and 49 females (including two minors) missing since the war’s onset. The majority of disappearances occurred in major cities such as Khartoum, Omdurman, and Bahri, with a smaller number in cities like El Obeid, El Fasher, Nyala, El Geneina, and Zalingei. Additionally, 110 cases were from locations within war-affected states, but the exact locations of disappearance were unspecified.

The report also provided a monthly breakdown of disappearances, with the highest numbers in April and May. A total of 296 cases had indeterminate dates of disappearance, despite occurring within the report’s timeframe. Notably, the report included 9 cases of missing persons with psychological disorders, underscoring the wide-reaching impact of the conflict. The findings were based on communication with reliable sources, families of victims, and interviews with individuals released after kidnapping.
The report on enforced disappearances in Sudan expressed disappointment over the inadequate implementation of legal measures against this crime, despite Sudan’s ratification of the International Convention for the Protection of Persons from Enforced Disappearance in 2021. It noted that prosecutors typically limit their actions to writing reports under Article 47 of the procedures and subsequently issuing a criminal bulletin.

The report also highlighted the cessation of operations of prosecutors, police departments, and courts in the cities mentioned, with many of their headquarters being converted into military barracks and detention centers. It pointed out that the first report under Article 186, paragraph (n), which addresses enforced disappearance, was filed on July 27 of the previous year.

On August 31, coinciding with the International Day of Enforced Disappearance, the group disclosed to “Beam Reports” that it had lodged reports with the Gezira State Prosecution Office in accordance with Article 32 of the Criminal Procedure Code of 1991. These reports pertained to cases of enforced disappearance from Khartoum State, with 446 reports filed in the city of Wad Madani and additional reports in other states.

Sudanese activists have raised concerns about the silence regarding civilians detained by the Rapid Support Forces in what is described as the worst detention conditions in Sudan’s history, including torture, food deprivation, and degrading treatment. They have identified several locations within Khartoum State used for detention, including:

Embassy of the Authority of Oman, east of Sharwani parking lot.
South Ozon Building, West Danfodiwa.
Former Al-Fateh Babiker Holding Company building.
Saudi Embassy in Al-Amarat.
French Embassy on Street 13.
Jordanian Embassy buildings.
Indian Embassy on Street 1.
Export Development Bank on Street 15.
Forensic evidence building on Obaid Khatam Street.
Operations Authority headquarters in Riyadh.
Omdurman Radio Buildings.

Documented Violations Against Army Prisoners:
On November 2, 2023, the Foundation for Defending Rights and Freedoms (FDRF) strongly condemned the Rapid Support Forces for the execution of prisoners belonging to the Sudanese army. This act was described as a gross violation of human dignity and international humanitarian law, including the Geneva Convention on the treatment of prisoners.

The liquidation reportedly occurred at the Balila oil field in West Kordofan state, as shown in a documentary video. The FDRF holds the Rapid Support Forces morally and legally accountable for these actions, considering them a breach of the ethics and rules of war and a contribution to the record of crimes against humanity.
The situation in Sudan, as documented by various sources, shows a worrying level of destruction of infrastructure across Khartoum State, with the United Nations expressing serious concerns:

The UN Humanitarian Coordinator in Sudan, Clementine Nkweta Salami, expressed deep concern over the continuous attacks on civilian infrastructure amidst ongoing brutal fighting in the country. She emphasized the critical impact of such attacks on facilities vital for basic services, including healthcare.
In October, several incidents were reported, including the bombing of Al-Naw Hospital in Omdurman, the last operational hospital in the area. This attack resulted in two deaths and five injuries while medical workers were treating patients. Additionally, four other shells exploded near the hospital, causing two more fatalities.
On October 21, the Al-Manara water treatment plant in Omdurman was bombed, leading to a temporary halt in water supply. This incident was particularly concerning due to the ongoing cholera outbreak in Khartoum State and its potential long-term impact on agriculture, industry, and daily life.
Salami reiterated her calls to Sudanese forces, the Rapid Support Forces, and all parties involved in the conflict to protect civilian infrastructure, highlighting that international humanitarian law mandates the safeguarding of civilian objects, humanitarian assets, and basic infrastructure.
Sudanese media reported the destruction of approximately 33,000 buildings in Khartoum State, including the Presidential Palace and buildings of 29 ministries. The damage also extended to command and reserve buildings, armored vehicles, the Weapons Corps, the Central Reserve, Intelligence Building, Forensic Evidence Headquarters, and the Police Headquarters.
Notable buildings and facilities such as Al-Tadamon Towers, Al-Fayhaa, Afra Mall, the National Bank, Police House, the Ministry of Justice headquarters, Nile Company, Petrodar, specifications and standards were also destroyed.
Six water stations were destroyed, and 93% of electricity offices suffered damage. Additionally, around 9,000 electricity poles were affected.
A total of 158 markets were completely destroyed and looted.
The destruction encompassed 411 factories in Bahri and 231 factories in Khartoum.
About 220 pharmacies in Khartoum were destroyed and looted, and 200 health institutions were rendered non-operational.

These reports paint a grim picture of the extensive damage and disruption caused by the conflict in Sudan, significantly impacting the country’s infrastructure and the well-being of its citizens.

The situation in Sudan, as recorded in various reports, reveals a systematic approach by rebel militias in targeting key facilities and infrastructure, with the Sudanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other organizations expressing grave concerns:

The Sudanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a statement dated October 21, 2023, condemned the militia’s continued targeting of humanitarian facilities. This included the bombing of the Al-Manara Water Station in Omdurman on October 21, involving 13 tanks, 8 of which fell into the water purification basin, causing a temporary halt to the station’s operations to assess potential water contamination. The Al-Manara Water Station is vital for the Omdurman region, particularly Karari Governorate, and its shutdown risked causing severe water shortages.
The Ministry highlighted this attack as part of a series of atrocities committed by the rebel militia, including bombings in residential areas, occupation of hospitals, looting of food and medicine supplies, and the siege of Nyala city. The militia’s actions also involved using civilians as human shields. The Ministry urged the international community to condemn these terrorist acts.
In another development, the Oil Sector Workers Association issued a statement on October 30, 2023, regarding the Balila oil field. Reports of an impending attack by the Rapid Support Forces prompted a technical and security plan, leading to the closure of the field and evacuation of workers. The militia’s subsequent attack resulted in the takeover of the Balila airport and parts of the field. The Association held the Rapid Support Forces accountable for the safety of workers and oil facilities.
Sudanese media also reported the burning of the Nile and Nahle Petroleum Company’s warehouse at the Al-Jili Refinery by the Rapid Support Forces militia . Additionally, the militia announced the occupation of the “Qadereen” Center for Addiction Treatment, converting it into a military barracks.

These incidents underscore the extensive and deliberate targeting of vital facilities and infrastructure in Sudan, significantly impacting the country’s humanitarian and economic stability.

The situation in Sudan, particularly in Darfur, is marked by serious human rights violations and arrests carried out by the Rapid Support Forces militia , as reported by Radio Dabanga and human rights bodies on November 1, 2023:

The Oil Workers Association reported that the Rapid Support Forces arrested engineers Khaled Taj al-Din Khaled, Muhammad Hamid Ali Ahmed, and Hamid Othman Al-Khalifa following their attack on the Balila field in West Darfur state. The engineers were apprehended during the evacuation of workers from the field while traveling from Al-Fula to Al-Obeid. The Oil Sector Workers Association demanded the release of the engineers and held the Rapid Support Forces responsible for their safety, condemning the unjustified arrests which contradict the Forces’ previous assurances to oil companies.
Additionally, the Association reported widespread sabotage and looting at the Balila field after the invasion by the Rapid Support Forces.
On October 28, 2023, the Darfur Bar Association strongly condemned the human dignity-degrading violations during the arrest of Hussein Al-Tahir Al-Dhi Ahmed and his colleagues from the Italian Hospital in Nyala. The association held the Rapid Support Forces accountable for the consequences of escalating the ongoing conflict with the army into civil wars.
Eyewitness testimonies revealed the grave violations committed by the Rapid Support Forces against medical staff and workers at the Italian Hospital in Nyala. These actions were seen as violations of all applicable laws and customs.
The Darfur Bar Association warned that such actions by the Rapid Support Forces could transform their power struggle with the army into comprehensive and devastating civil wars.
The Association urgently called for the release of Hussein Al-Tahir Al-Dhi Ahmed, an English language teacher and employee at the Italian Hospital’s Nutrition Department, along with his fellow staff members, who were detained by the Rapid Support Forces.

These reports highlight the severity of the situation in Darfur, where the actions of the Rapid Support Forces militia are causing significant concern for human rights and the stability of the region.

On November 2, 2023, serious incidents involving the targeting of journalists and activists in Sudan were reported, highlighting the dangerous environment for those working in the media and human rights sectors:

Radio Dabanga reported that the Journalists for Human Rights (Jahr) organization called on the fact-finding committee, established by the Human Rights Council, to prioritize investigating the killing of Halima Idris, a journalist for the Sudan Bakra channel. Jahr emphasized the need to investigate all violations against journalists, both male and female, in the armed conflict in Sudan.
Jahr’s statement, released on the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Committed against Journalists, urged an end to the war on civilians, civilian objects, and the press. They highlighted the critical situation where journalists have been directly targeted or deprived of healthcare, with many subjected to arbitrary arrests, torture, and degrading treatment.
The organization reported that the war conditions have led to the closure of approximately 17 print newspapers, the cessation of several satellite and radio broadcasts, and the loss of jobs for hundreds of journalists. Furthermore, journalists have faced theft of personal property and occupation of their homes.
Jahr noted the escalation of attacks against journalists to extreme levels of physical violence, including murder. They specifically mentioned the case of Halima Idris Salem, a journalist for the Sudan Bokra channel, who was killed on October 10, 2023, after being run over by a vehicle belonging to the Rapid Support Forces. No accountability or apology was provided by the Rapid Support for this incident.
The Foundation for Defending Rights and Freedoms condemned the assassination of activist Bahja Abdullah in Kalma camp, in Nyala. Despite receiving threats from Rapid Support, Bahja Abdullah continued her work with the Darfur Women’s Coalition, focusing on human rights and supporting rape victims and survivors.

These reports document the perilous situation for those involved in journalism and activism in Sudan, particularly in regions affected by conflict and the actions of the Rapid Support Forces.

The Arab Lawyers Union has taken significant steps to address human rights violations in Sudan, as reported in recent developments:

The Permanent Office of the Arab Lawyers Union decided to establish a committee of experts and specialists to investigate human rights violations, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide allegedly committed by the Rapid Support Forces militia in the Sudan war that erupted in April 2023. This decision was made during the closing session of the Permanent Office meetings held in Amman, Jordan, under the theme of supporting the Palestinian cause.
This investigative committee’s formation is a response to the numerous reports issued by international and regional human rights organizations. These reports have detailed widespread and systematic violations by the Rapid Support Forces, including the killing of unarmed civilians, forced displacements, vandalism, theft, kidnapping of children and women, sexual and physical assaults, and the looting and burning of markets, shops, companies, and factories. The extent of these violations has been documented by NGOs concerned with Sudanese affairs and human rights, reaching record numbers in Khartoum and parts of Darfur and Kordofan.
The Arab Lawyers Union, established in 1944 and comprising over a million lawyers from Arab countries, is the first unofficial legal institution in the Arab world to address these issues. The decision to form the investigation team came in response to the pleas of thousands of victims and human rights advocates.

In a related development, the President of the Sovereignty Council,General Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, addressed the Saudi-African Partnership Summit. He affirmed Sudan’s strong support for the Saudi-African partnership, highlighting Sudan’s strategic geographical position linking the Kingdom to the African continent. In his speech, he expressed optimism about the partnership, emphasizing Sudan’s commitment to working towards its success, with the aspiration that it would bring security, stability, and prosperity to all involved parties. This stance indicates Sudan’s efforts to restore the dignity of its people and its stance against the actions of the rebel Rapid Support Forces militia .
Friday, November 10, 2023, Riyadh.
In the name of Allah, praise be to God, prayer and peace be upon the Messenger of Allah.
His Majesty King Salman bin Abdulaziz, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia,
His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince,
Ladies and Gentlemen, Heads of State and Government, and Heads of Delegations,
Moussa Faki, Chairman of the African Union Commission,
All attendees,
MayAllah’s peace, mercy, and blessings be upon you.
I extend my deepest thanks and gratitude to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for its relentless efforts in forging strategic partnerships with countries in our region, especially those in Africa. This initiative not only promotes mutual benefits but also contributes significantly to the stability and well-being of our peoples. Such cooperation and interconnectedness are crucial for enhancing political and economic stability in our region.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Sudan stands as a firm supporter of the Saudi-African partnership, taking advantage of our strategic geographical position that connects the Kingdom to the African continent. We welcome the inception of this partnership and are committed to collaborating with all parties to develop it into a tangible reality. We envision a partnership that yields benefits in terms of security, stability, and prosperity for all.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
You are all aware of the challenges Sudan has faced due to the actions of the terrorist Rapid Support Forces. Their rebellion has led to severe violations against our citizens. These forces have enlisted criminals and terrorists globally and, failing to take control in the early stages of the rebellion, resorted to systematically destroying Sudan’s legacy, culture, capabilities, and social fabric. They occupied homes, looted properties, raped women, and devastated state infrastructure, including hospitals and service facilities. This destruction, driven by their ambitions, has manifested in ethnic cleansing and forced displacement of populations in Khartoum and Darfur. The situation in Darfur now, with hundreds being killed daily for racial and ethnic reasons, amounts to war crimes. These forces have replaced African groups with populations from other countries, utilizing methods of physical liquidation, intimidation, and terrorism.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
The rebel forces have ignited tribal strife and regional wars, threatening to fragment Sudan. Unfortunately, these groups receive support from certain countries and international organizations, implicating them in the atrocities faced by the Sudanese people. In a shocking turn of events, some have even equated the state with a rebellious force that has committed heinous war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Despite the horrific acts committed by these rebel forces, we have always responded to calls for dialogue, prioritizing the safety and security of our nation. We agreed to negotiations in Jeddah, reaching a declaration that the rebels would move to agreed-upon areas, but they failed to comply. Even during negotiations, their terror continued unabated in Darfur and other cities.
I extend my sincere thanks to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the United States, IGAD, and our neighbors for their efforts in seeking peace in Sudan.
Honored Guests,
I call from this platform for the condemnation of the rebel forces. Their barbaric acts must be denounced, and they should be recognized as terrorist groups. Those who cooperate with them must face similar condemnation, aiding us in halting their heinous practices and helping to restore stability and normalcy to the lives of the Sudanese people and the region.
I express my gratitude to our friends and allies who have supported Sudan’s unity and stability and have stood with our people in their times of refuge and displacement.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
The world is watching, and we follow with concern the unfolding events in the Gaza Strip. We stand in full solidarity with the Palestinian people, supporting their right to establish a legitimate state within the June 1967 borders. The aggression against Gaza and its people must stop immediately, allowing them to live dignified lives.
I conclude by reiterating my gratitude to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for inviting me to this forum, a cornerstone for the future of Saudi-African relations. Thank you for your warm reception and generous hospitality.
Peace, mercy, and blessings of Allah be upon you.

At the sidelines of the summit, significant discussions took place that focused on the evolving situation in Sudan, marking an important part of Al-Burhan’s regional agenda.

As part of these discussions, the President of the Sudanese Transitional Sovereignty Council met with Kenyan President William Ruto for a joint session. This meeting was pivotal in discussing joint cooperation between Sudan and Kenya and exploring ways to enhance and develop relations across various sectors. Moreover, they delved into the ongoing developments in Sudan and shared perspectives on issues of mutual interest.

During this session, President Burhan briefed President Ruto on the recent developments in Sudan, particularly highlighting the challenges posed by the rebellion of the Rapid Support Forces militia. He emphasized the militia’s involvement in grave crimes against civilians and the destruction of civilian infrastructure. He also outlined the measures being undertaken to restore security, stability, and peace in Sudan.

President Ruto, in response, expressed Kenya’s firm support for peace and stability in Sudan. He underscored Kenya’s commitment to bolstering the efforts of the Sudanese government to sustain peace, stability, and bring an end to the war in Sudan.

Our discussions further encompassed peace initiatives such as the Jeddah Platform and the IGAD peace process. Both of us agreed on the urgency of finding prompt solutions to the crisis in Sudan.

In these visits and discussions, President Burhan was accompanied by key figures including the Foreign Minister, Ambassador Ali Al-Sadiq, the Director of the General Intelligence Service, General Ahmed Ibrahim Mufadal, and the Governor of the Darfur region, Minni Arko Minawi. Their presence and contributions were integral to the depth and breadth of the discussions held.