Sudan – Sudanese activists announced, on Tuesday, that the death toll in the city of Al-Hilalia in Al-Jazeera state in the center of the country had risen to 450 people as a result of attacks and siege by the Rapid Support Forces of the city for about 20 days.
In recent days, local and international accusations have increased against the Rapid Support Forces of “committing violations and mass murders” against civilians in the state of Al-Jazeera (central), without a comment from these paramilitary forces until 16:45 (UTG).
Clashes renewed between the “Rapid Support” and the Sudanese army in the state of Al-Jazira on October 20, against the backdrop of the defection of the leader of the support forces, Abu Aqla Kikel, who is from the state, and the announcement of his joining the army forces.
In December 2023, the Rapid Support, led by Kikel, took control of several cities on the island, including Wad Madani, the center of the state.
“Rapid Support” currently controls large parts of the state, except for the city of Al-Manaqil and its surrounding areas, up to the borders of Sennar State in the south, and west to the borders of White Nile State.
“Nidaa Al-Wasat” (a Sudanese civil entity that includes a group of activists) reported on Tuesday, “After 19 days of the Rapid Support Forces’ siege of citizens in the city of Al-Hilalia, the number of martyrs reached 450, including children.”
He explained in a statement, “With every passing moment, the tragic news arrives that we have lost more people as a result of the siege and the conditions imposed on them by the Rapid Support Forces and their leaders.”
The statement listed the names of the 450 victims, and it is likely that their numbers will rise as the counting process continues.
Yesterday, Monday, “Nidaa Al-Wasat” said that the death toll from Al-Hilaliya reached 350 dead, “20 of whom died as a result of gunshot wounds, and 330 as a result of poisoning and deteriorating health condition.”
After the Sudanese Foreign Ministry on Thursday accused the Rapid Support of killing 120 civilians in the city of Hilaliya, the Sudan Doctors Syndicate (non-governmental) announced on Friday that the death toll in Hilaliya had risen to 200.
According to local sources told Anadolu correspondent, the “Rapid Support” continues to attack Al-Hilalia, which is one of the largest cities in the east of Al-Jazeera State, and imposes a siege on tens of thousands of its residents.
For its part, the United Nations Office for Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported, on Tuesday, the displacement of tens of thousands of civilians from parts of Jazira State since last October 20, “following a wave of armed violence and attacks in the region.”
He pointed to reports “about the killing of civilians and the injury of others due to poisoned food in the city of Al-Hilalia, east of Al-Jazeera State.”
The UN office added in a statement, “About 135,400 people were displaced from the island and arrived in the states of Gedaref and Kassala (east) and the Nile River (north) until last October 30.”
Since mid-April 2023, the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces have been fighting a war that has left more than 20,000 dead and more than 13 million displaced and refugees, according to estimates by the United Nations and local authorities.
UN and international calls are mounting to end the war in order to spare Sudan a humanitarian catastrophe that has begun to push millions into famine and death due to food shortages due to the fighting that has spread to 13 out of 18 states.
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**Interview with Sudanese Activist, Fatima Hassan**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Fatima. The situation in Al-Hilalia has escalated dramatically, with reports indicating a death toll of 450 as a result of attacks by the Rapid Support Forces. Can you provide us with an overview of what is happening in the region?
**Fatima Hassan:** Thank you for having me. The situation in Al-Hilalia is dire. For the past 20 days, the Rapid Support Forces have been besieging the city, leading to devastating consequences for the civilians caught in the crossfire. Our latest reports suggest that the death toll has risen significantly, with many casualties resulting from not only gunfire but also from the horrific living conditions created by this siege. We are losing people every day, including innocents, children, and the elderly.
**Editor:** It’s heartbreaking to hear about the impact on civilians. The Rapid Support Forces have been accused of committing violations and mass murders. What can you tell us about these accusations?
**Fatima Hassan:** The allegations against the Rapid Support Forces are alarming and have not gone unnoticed, both locally and internationally. Many organizations have raised their voices, asserting that the RSF is committing atrocious acts against innocent civilians. There’s a lack of their response, which only escalates the fear among the people of Al-Jazeera state. We need accountability and for the international community to take notice of these violations.
**Editor:** You mentioned that clashes resumed between the Rapid Support Forces and the Sudanese army after a significant defection within the RSF. How do you think this defection will affect the conflict moving forward?
**Fatima Hassan:** The defection of Abu Aqla Kikel is a critical turning point. His move to join the Sudanese army could shift the balance of power, especially since he is a local leader familiar with the dynamics of the region. However, it also raises tensions, as the Rapid Support Forces may retaliate more aggressively. The ongoing conflict further complicates the humanitarian crisis in Al-Hilalia and increases the risk for civilians.
**Editor:** With reports of continuing suffering and casualties, what actions do you believe should be taken both inside Sudan and internationally?
**Fatima Hassan:** Internally, we need organizations like “Nidaa Al-Wasat” to continue raising awareness and advocating for the victims. We need stronger communication lines to ensure aid can reach those affected. Internationally, the community must impose sanctions against those who are committing these crimes. It’s essential for global leaders to condemn these actions and apply pressure for a ceasefire and humanitarian assistance. Every life lost is a tragedy, and we need immediate action to protect civilians in Al-Hilalia and beyond.
**Editor:** Thank you, Fatima, for your insights and for sharing the gravity of the situation. We hope for a swift resolution and for peace to return to the region.
**Fatima Hassan:** Thank you for shedding light on this critical issue.
