UN experts say el-Fasher assault shows hallmarks of genocide

A U.N.-backed fact-finding mission reported that an October operation by Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces in and around el-Fasher displayed "hallmarks of genocide," targeting non-Arab communities, and the team called for accountability.

U.N.-backed investigators reported a campaign of destruction in and around el-Fasher in late October that targeted non-Arab communities and showed what the team described as "hallmarks of genocide." The Rapid Support Forces carried out the operation after an extended siege of the city, which had been one of the last strongholds of the Sudanese army in Darfur. The fact-finding team said the actions were planned and bore core elements of the crime of genocide under international law. The mission urged accountability and warned protection of civilians is needed amid the wider conflict in Sudan. Key findings: - The fact-finding mission reported that the October assault by the Rapid Support Forces targeted non-Arab communities, notably the Zaghawa and the Fur, and described the pattern of attacks as showing "hallmarks of genocide." - U.N. officials reported that several thousand civilians were killed during the RSF takeover of el-Fasher and that many others were wounded or displaced; about 40% of the city's roughly 260,000 residents managed to flee, according to the report. - The mission said it found at least three of the five legal criteria used to assess genocide and called for accountability, while noting the team itself does not make final legal determinations. Summary: The report adds to international concern about violence in Darfur and strengthens calls for investigation and accountability for the reported abuses. What legal or prosecutorial steps will follow is undetermined at this time.