UN human rights chief warns of possible RSF assault in Sudan's el‑Obeid

The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, warned on Tuesday that escalating tensions in Sudan could soon lead to a large‑scale assault by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The warning follows a series of clashes between the RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces that have displaced thousands and heightened concerns about civilian casualties in the capital, Khartoum, and surrounding regions. Türk urged all parties to respect international humanitarian law and called on the UN Security Council to consider urgent measures to protect civilians and facilitate humanitarian access.

Türk’s statement comes amid reports of the RSF mobilising troops and heavy weaponry near key urban centers, prompting fears of an imminent offensive that could exacerbate the humanitarian crisis already affecting more than 8 million people. The UN office highlighted recent violations, including indiscriminate shelling and restrictions on aid deliveries, and stressed that any further escalation would likely breach the Geneva Conventions. International observers are monitoring the situation closely, while diplomatic efforts to negotiate a ceasefire continue. The UN has reiterated its readiness to support a political solution and to hold accountable any actors responsible for violations of human rights.