Sudan faces deadly attacks in refugee camps amid worsening civil war

Sudan is currently grappling with a devastating civil war that has now entered its third year. The conflict, which began on April 15, 2023, has produced grave humanitarian consequences, with the United Nations labeling the situation as the worst humanitarian crisis in the world. The violence has led to widespread famine, affecting millions of people, as fighting erupted between the Sudanese military and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The recent recapture of Khartoum by the military has marked a new phase of warfare, which threatens to divide the country further. The situation in the western Darfur region is particularly dire. Recent events saw RSF fighters and their allies attacking the Zamzam and Abu Shouk refugee camps, where over 700,000 displaced Sudanese reside. The assaults last weekend resulted in at least 300 fatalities. These camps, already stricken by severe food shortages, have become increasingly inaccessible to aid organizations due to ongoing hostilities. As a result, more than half of Sudan's 50 million people face hunger, according to the World Food Program (WFP). Famine has been declared in 10 locations, including North Darfur and adjoining provinces. It is estimated that 25 million residents are experiencing acute hunger, with 638,000 individuals facing catastrophic hunger, marking the highest level of need. Reports indicate that the humanitarian crisis has displaced around 13 million people, pushing many to seek refuge in neighboring countries. The dire circumstances have prompted local aid organizations, such as Relief International, to call for immediate international intervention to facilitate a ceasefire. As the conflict continues, the situation remains fluid, with military successes creating some avenues for humanitarian aid to reach affected regions. An estimated 400,000 individuals have returned to areas retaken by the military surrounding Khartoum, although many find their homes in ruins. These are precarious conditions for returnees, living with little to no resources, electricity, or communication. The unyielding fears surrounding safety and unstable living conditions paint a bleak picture of life in Sudan for millions.