In a concerning development, the United States' envoy to Sudan, Tom Perriello, has issued a warning that the besieged city of El Fasher in western Darfur is at risk of falling to rebel forces. El Fasher, currently the only city under army control in the region, has become the focal point of a civil war between the armed forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) that has raged on for 14 months.

Mr. Perriello emphasized that some factions within the RSF believe that capturing El Fasher would pave the way for the establishment of Darfur as an independent state. However, he made it clear that the United States would not recognize any such breakaway state "under any circumstances." He urged those in RSF territory to abandon the misconception that controlling El Fasher grants them the right to claim Darfur.

Highlighting the dire humanitarian situation, Mr. Perriello called for an immediate ceasefire in El Fasher, which has been under attack by the RSF since mid-April. The prolonged siege has resulted in the starvation of over a million innocent civilians and frequent bombings, including within hospitals, claiming lives.

Disturbingly, the fall of El Fasher would exacerbate the already dire conditions as people flee the city. Hundreds of thousands of civilians are currently trapped inside, enduring severe shortages of food and water, leaving them hungry and thirsty. Previously considered a sanctuary for those displaced by the conflict, El Fasher has tragically turned into yet another frontline.

Reports from civilians in El Fasher detail horrifying accounts of shelling and bullets striking homes and even hospitals. The Sayyid Shuada health center, one of the few medical facilities still operational, has been overwhelmed by the mounting casualties. With only one surgeon available, medical staff are working tirelessly to provide round-the-clock care to patients in critical condition.

The situation in El Fasher has prompted local community volunteers to form committees to support the overwhelmed hospital. These committees undertake non-medical tasks such as sourcing water and fuel, as well as collecting vital data. The resilience of the war-battered community can be seen through their donations of cash, goods, and services to aid the hospital's efforts.

Unfortunately, the fighting has led to the closure of several facilities, including the South Hospital, which was stormed by RSF fighters. Gunmen looted the facility and stole an ambulance, rendering it non-functional. This incident highlights the escalating deterioration of the healthcare system in El Fasher.

The imminent fall of El Fasher to rebel forces has sparked concern among international observers and raises alarming prospects for the already devastated region of Darfur. As the conflict continues to intensify, urgent action is needed to prevent further loss of life and address the dire humanitarian crisis unfolding in El Fasher.