What Do Satellite Images Reveal About the New Barrier Surrounding Sudan's Besieged City?

The construction of an extensive earthen wall around the besieged Sudanese city of el-Fasher is aimed at trapping civilians inside, as reported by Yale University's Humanitarian Research Lab. The wall, known as a berm, has been built over 31 kilometres since May 2023, significantly intensifying the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region.

Last updated: 07 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have constructed over 31 km of earthen walls around el-Fasher.
• El-Fasher has been under siege for more than a year, with reports of civilian targeting by RSF.
• The construction of berms complicates humanitarian access and civilian escape.
• Local organisations report severe consequences, including food scarcity and medical access issues.
• There are concerns about the potential partitioning of Sudan if the RSF gains control of el-Fasher.

Understanding the Conflict in Sudan

The conflict in Sudan erupted in April 2023, primarily between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the RSF, a paramilitary group. El-Fasher, the capital of North Darfur, represents a critical stronghold for the SAF, with the RSF seeking to assert control over the region. The ongoing hostilities have resulted in widespread violence, displacing thousands and severely impacting the civilian population.

The Role of Berms in Modern Warfare

Berms, or earthen walls, have become a significant tactical element in the conflict. According to the Yale HRL, both warring factions have employed them for defensive purposes. However, the RSF's construction of these walls is reportedly part of a strategy to encircle el-Fasher and limit the movement of civilians and supplies.

Humanitarian Crisis in El-Fasher

With approximately 300,000 residents trapped in el-Fasher, the humanitarian situation is dire. The RSF's offensive has led to deliberate attacks on civilian areas, including hospitals and marketplaces. Dr Mohamed Faisal Hassan from the Sudan Doctors Network reported that attacks in recent weeks have resulted in numerous casualties, including women and children. The RSF has faced accusations of ethnic cleansing, particularly against non-Arab ethnic groups in the region, exacerbating the crisis.

The Implications of the Earthen Wall

The construction of the berms has profound implications for the humanitarian situation in el-Fasher. According to the HRL report, these walls not only deepen the siege conditions but also restrict access to essential goods and services. Humanitarian organisations have been unable to reach the city for months, leaving residents without food, medicine, or medical care.

Real-Life Consequences for Civilians

Many civilians are caught in a desperate situation. As Halima Hashim, a local schoolteacher, explained, the choice to stay means slow suffering, but leaving poses a significant risk due to RSF targeting. The ongoing bombardment and scarcity of resources have left residents in a state of despair.

International Response and Local Advocacy

Former governor Adeeb Abdel Rahman Youssef has called for urgent international intervention, appealing to the UN Security Council to protect el-Fasher's civilians. As humanitarian access diminishes, voices from within the region highlight the urgent need for international support to alleviate the suffering of the population.

Potential Outcomes of the Conflict

The future of el-Fasher remains uncertain. Should the RSF gain full control, it could signify a significant shift in power dynamics in Darfur, potentially leading to the partitioning of Sudan. As both sides appear entrenched in their positions, the prospect of a peaceful resolution seems increasingly distant.

The Current Situation and Next Steps

As of October 2023, the construction of the berms continues, with new segments appearing in satellite images. Analysts warn that the RSF's strategic moves could alter the landscape of control in Darfur significantly. The international community's response in the coming weeks will be crucial in determining the fate of el-Fasher and its residents.

FAQs

What are berms and how are they used in the Sudan conflict?

Berms are raised earth banks used for defensive purposes in military conflicts. In Sudan, both the Rapid Support Forces and the Sudanese Armed Forces use them to protect their positions and control movement in and out of besieged areas.

What is the current humanitarian situation in el-Fasher?

The humanitarian situation in el-Fasher is critical, with civilians facing severe shortages of food, medical supplies, and safety due to ongoing bombardment and RSF offensives.

What actions have been taken by the international community regarding the conflict?

The international community has faced criticism for its slow response to the humanitarian crisis in Sudan. Calls for intervention and protection of civilians have been made, particularly from local leaders and NGOs.

What does the future hold for el-Fasher and its residents?

The future of el-Fasher is uncertain, with fears that the RSF's control could lead to further violence and potential partitioning of Sudan. Ongoing conflict and humanitarian issues complicate prospects for peace.

How can civilians escape from el-Fasher?

Escaping from el-Fasher is perilous due to RSF targeting of fleeing civilians. Those who attempt to leave often face significant risks, including violence and death.

As the situation in Sudan continues to evolve, the urgent need for humanitarian assistance and international intervention remains paramount. The fate of el-Fasher's residents hangs in the balance, highlighting the broader implications for stability in the region. #SudanCrisis #ElFasher #HumanitarianEmergency