Khartoum, June 22 (Darfur24)
International officials have urged Rapid Support Forces (RSF) commander Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, not to launch an attack on El Obeid, the capital of North Kordofan State, amid growing fears that fighting inside the city could expose hundreds of thousands of civilians to serious violations.
Informed sources told Darfur24 on Monday that several international leaders, including representatives of countries involved in diplomatic efforts on Sudan, contacted Hemedti to express concern about the humanitarian consequences of a potential assault on the city.
According to the sources, international officials warned of the risks facing civilians if military operations were to take place inside El Obeid. Hemedti reportedly assured them that his forces remain committed to protecting civilians.
The sources added that the RSF leader told international interlocutors that the Sudanese army had distributed weapons to civilians inside the city, including women.
The diplomatic contacts come days after the UN Security Council expressed concern over reports of a large RSF military buildup around El Obeid and called for efforts to prevent an attack on the city.
They also follow a joint appeal by the Sudan Atrocities Prevention and Justice Coalition and 21 countries urging the RSF not to launch an offensive. The coalition warned that an escalation could place approximately 500,000 civilians at risk, including more than 100,000 internally displaced people.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for safe passage for civilians wishing to leave the city, while stressing the need to protect those who remain and ensure unhindered humanitarian access.
Despite the international pressure, security sources told Darfur24 that the RSF continues to implement its military plans aimed at taking control of El Obeid. The sources said field commanders have not received any orders to suspend or halt the advance.
Meanwhile, other sources reported that Sudanese army military intelligence has imposed restrictions on civilians attempting to leave the city.
El Obeid has witnessed repeated drone attacks in recent weeks targeting civilian infrastructure, including fuel facilities, electricity installations and other service sites, heightening concerns over the city’s deteriorating humanitarian situation.