Hold Your Fire!

Special Episode: What Does the RSF’s Seizure of El Fasher Mean for Sudan’s War?

16 snips
Oct 29, 2025
Shewit Woldemichael, a crisis expert on Sudan, and Alan Boswell, Director for the Horn of Africa at the International Crisis Group, dive into the RSF's shocking capture of El Fasher. They reveal how this seizure follows a year-long siege, leading to a humanitarian crisis marked by civilian violence. The conversation touches on the de facto partition of Sudan, with RSF controlling the west and the army the east. They also explore the implications for U.S.-led ceasefire efforts, highlighting the complex geopolitical dynamics and internal divisions within the Sudanese armed forces.
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INSIGHT

Siege, Drones And Outside Support Decided Al-Fashir

  • The RSF seized Al-Fashir after a months-long siege that cut supplies and demoralized defenders.
  • Advanced weapons, drones and alleged external support (notably via UAE channels) tipped the balance in 2025.
INSIGHT

Offensives Timed To Strengthen Bargaining Power

  • The RSF timed offensives to strengthen its bargaining position during nascent peace talks.
  • Their capture coincided with a Washington DC Quad push for a three-month humanitarian truce.
INSIGHT

Opaque, Dire Conditions In Al-Fashir

  • Communications blackout and limited access make conditions in Al-Fashir extremely opaque and dangerous.
  • Reports indicate house-to-house searches, mass detentions and targeted killings amid severe humanitarian shortages.
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