More than 300 civilians, including aid workers, have been killed during two days of intense clashes in North Darfur, Sudan, according to the United Nations. The violence, which erupted around refugee camps on Friday and Saturday, has also displaced hundreds of thousands of people.
A UN spokesperson said that early reports from local sources indicate over 300 deaths, including 10 humanitarian workers from Relief International. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) estimates that between 60,000 to 80,000 households—around 400,000 individuals—have been forced to flee their homes.
The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) claimed on Sunday to have taken control of the Zamzam refugee camp after four days of fighting. Humanitarian groups report widespread destruction within the camp, including the demolition of shelters, medical facilities, and markets, further worsening the humanitarian situation.
The RSF has defended the attack, alleging that the camp had become a base for what they termed “mercenary groups.” However, this claim has not been independently verified. The conflict is part of a broader and escalating power struggle between the RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), which has also involved allied armed groups such as the Sudan Liberation Army.
The fighting has severely affected civilian areas and disrupted humanitarian operations in the region. The UN and aid agencies have called for urgent international intervention to stop the violence and ensure safe access to those in need. They warn that continued hostilities could lead to even greater displacement, loss of life, and damage to critical infrastructure.
As the situation remains volatile, humanitarian organizations stress the importance of protecting civilians and delivering emergency aid to the growing number of displaced and vulnerable people in North Darfur.
