The ongoing civil war in Sudan has led to a significant escalation of violence as rival military factions continue to clash. Recent reports indicate that soldiers have seized churches and targeted civilian infrastructure. According to Christian Solidarity Worldwide, a UK-based human rights organization, at least 60 people were killed during recent fighting in Darfur, specifically in El Fasher, where the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) are engaged in fierce combat.
On October 11, 2023, the RSF shelled the Saudi Hospital, which resulted in the deaths of at least 13 individuals and injuries to another 16. Additionally, 13 people were killed in an attack on a mosque, with 17 more wounded. The violence marks a troubling trend, as the RSF has increasingly occupied churches, including Episcopal and Pentecostal congregations, for military purposes. Many civilians, particularly from the local Christian population, had sought refuge in these churches.
Christian Solidarity Worldwide’s CEO, Scot Bower, expressed deep concern over the RSF’s actions, stating, “CSW is deeply concerned by the latest efforts of the RSF to increase pressure on hundreds of thousands of civilians in El Fasher who have already endured almost 18 months of a brutal siege.” He further emphasized that the recent attacks on a hospital, an internally displaced persons (IDP) camp, and a mosque could constitute war crimes. The RSF’s actions are part of a longer pattern of atrocities during the ongoing conflict, which has lasted over two and a half years.
The SAF has also been implicated in civilian casualties, with reports indicating that at least 16 people were killed in a drone strike in Al-Kuma, a town controlled by the RSF. Community members reported witnessing approximately 150 air strikes in the area, underscoring the intensity of the violence.
Bower called on the international community to intervene, urging global efforts to end the siege on El Fasher and protect civilian lives. He emphasized the necessity for all parties to the conflict to agree to an immediate, nationwide ceasefire.
According to Open Doors, Sudan ranks as the fifth worst country for Christian persecution worldwide. The ongoing conflict has contributed to the world’s largest displacement crisis, with nearly nine million people forced to flee their homes since the civil war erupted. The organization noted that neither faction in the conflict shows sympathy towards Christians, allowing Islamist extremists to target them more freely.
Furthermore, the targeting of churches has reached alarming levels, with reports indicating that over 100 churches have been damaged since the conflict began. Open Doors highlighted that Christians face exceptional hardship amid the hunger crisis, as local communities often discriminate against them, denying essential support.
As the situation in Sudan continues to deteriorate, the international community faces urgent calls to address the humanitarian crisis and protect vulnerable populations caught in the crossfire of this violent conflict.