Sudan's civil war kills 150,000 Christians amid persecution

Sudan, a nation facing extensive turmoil, is currently embroiled in a brutal civil war that has persisted for more than two years. This conflict has severely impacted the country's Christians, who make up approximately 4% of its population. With the onset of fighting in April 2023, triggered by escalating tensions following the ousting of President Omar al-Bashir in 2019, both the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have engaged in violent confrontations. This situation has led to a staggering death toll, with reports indicating that at least 150,000 Christians have lost their lives in the ongoing violence. Furthermore, chronic food shortages and displacements have forced many into desperate situations. Affected Christians are reported to be consuming animal feed and grass for sustenance, highlighting their dire circumstances. The RSF has been noted for its particularly harsh tactics, targeting Christian communities and churches with violence. The RSF, which has its roots in the notorious Janjaweed militias known for ethnic cleansing in Darfur, has not only instigated attacks but also actively coerced Christians to renounce their faith in exchange for supplies and protection. Arbitrary detentions have become common, with both warring factions failing to protect religious minorities amid this brutal conflict. For instance, reports from December 2024 indicate that the RSF militants attacked places of worship and seriously injured multiple Christians during services. The situation is particularly grave in El Fasher, a city currently under siege by the RSF, leaving its inhabitants without access to essential food and medical supplies. As of September 2025, conditions in this region are described as dire, with no means to access even basic necessities, leading to severe human suffering. The ongoing siege is emblematic of the broader crisis affecting millions of displaced individuals who reside in refugee camps, grappling with hunger, violence, and uncertainty about their futures. Many refugees recounted experiences of violence and loss, indicating the severe impact this war has had not only on Christians but also on the wider population. Within this context of violence and persecution, the U.S. State Department has expressed concerns about the deteriorating respect for fundamental freedoms in Sudan. The religious freedom of Christians is under significant threat, characterized by the government's indifference towards the safety of religious minorities. A local church leader highlighted the oppressive environment, indicating that public prayer and gatherings are increasingly restricted. The situation reflects a systematic effort to suppress Christianity in Sudan, leaving many believers in peril and calling for international attention to their plight.