Deadly attack in Wad al-Nourah, Sudan, June 2023

In June 2023, Wad al-Nourah, a village in Sudan, experienced one of the deadliest attacks since the onset of the civil war between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Survivors reported that armed men from the RSF launched two successive assaults on the village, employing heavy weaponry and resulting in at least 100 fatalities. The attacks left residents in a state of shock as they faced relentless shelling and subsequent violence. Many were forced to flee their homes, while others attempted to care for the wounded and bury the deceased amidst chaos. Eyewitness accounts reveal harrowing experiences, including physical assaults and demands for valuables from the attackers. One survivor recounted the brutal killing of family members during the RSF's incursion. The RSF has been accused of numerous human rights abuses throughout the conflict, which began in April 2023, leading to widespread displacement and suffering among civilians. The situation in Gezira state, where Wad al-Nourah is located, has been particularly dire, with the RSF taking control of the area and intensifying their operations against local populations. The conflict has resulted in the deaths of thousands and forced over 10 million people to abandon their homes. The RSF's actions have drawn international scrutiny, yet they continue to deny allegations of wrongdoing. The ongoing violence underscores the urgent need for humanitarian assistance and a resolution to the conflict, as communities struggle to survive amid the turmoil. As the situation evolves, the plight of civilians remains a pressing concern, highlighting the devastating impact of the power struggle between the Sudanese army and the RSF on ordinary lives. The international community faces challenges in addressing the humanitarian crisis and restoring peace in the region.