US warns of possible 'mass atrocities' as RSF forces encircle Sudan's El-Obeid

The United States has voiced alarm over the deteriorating situation in Sudan's El-Obeid, warning that an assault by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and allied groups on the city could lead to "mass atrocities" and further deepen the country's humanitarian crisis.

In a statement issued on Monday, the US State Department said the RSF was "massing forces" around el-Obeid and cautioned that any escalation would have devastating consequences for civilians. Washington also renewed its call for a negotiated end to the conflict.

US warns of humanitarian consequences

"There are alarming indications that mass atrocities could be imminent, further worsening Sudan's already catastrophic humanitarian crisis," the statement said.

"The RSF and their allied forces must cease any actions that could endanger civilians, impede humanitarian assistance, or contribute to further atrocities and suffering. The belligerents must uphold their obligations under international humanitarian law to protect civilians and ensure that those seeking safety can do so without fear or obstruction."

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The United States joins the United Nations and other international observers in expressing concern over developments in Sudan, where fighting between the RSF and the country's army has continued since April 2023.

The conflict has killed tens of thousands of people and displaced millions, creating one of the world's gravest humanitarian emergencies.

Fears of a repeat of el-Fasher

The United Nations has warned that an attack on el-Obeid could mirror the October 2025 assault on el-Fasher, which UN officials said bore "hallmarks of genocide".

Over the weekend, the UN Human Rights Council said around 500,000 civilians in El-Obeid were at risk of atrocities if the RSF launches an offensive on the city. It also reported that 50 civilians had been killed in drone strikes over 10 days in El-Obeid and North Kordofan.

"This war has exacted an intolerable toll on the Sudanese people. Civilians have borne the brunt of the violence and have suffered immensely from the devastation caused by this conflict," the State Department said.

"The United States calls on the belligerents to facilitate safe, rapid, and unhindered humanitarian access, uphold their responsibilities to protect civilians, and take immediate steps to prevent further atrocities."