A satellite image shows vehicles in Zamzam Camp, which hosts displaced people, amid the ongoing conflict in the country, in North Darfur, Sudan, April 11, 2025. Maxar Technologies/Handout via REUTERS/File Photo Purchase Licensing Rights
| Published April 15, 2025
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) reports that up to 400,000 individuals have been displaced from Sudan’s Zamzam camp in North Darfur following its capture by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The RSF’s four-day assault resulted in over 300 civilian deaths, including 10 humanitarian workers from Relief International. Prior to the attack, the camp’s population had swelled to approximately 500,000, with many seeking refuge from ongoing conflicts. Satellite imagery indicates widespread destruction within the camp, consistent with previous RSF tactics. The RSF contends that the camp was used as a base by military groups.
This assault is part of a broader pattern of violence in Darfur, where the RSF has intensified operations following the Sudanese army’s recapture of Khartoum. The conflict, ignited in April 2023 by a power struggle between the RSF and the army, has led to millions of displacements, significant casualties, and exacerbated famine conditions nationwide.
The United Nations has condemned these attacks as a severe escalation, highlighting the destruction of essential infrastructure and the targeting of civilians. The violence has precipitated a massive humanitarian crisis, with famine affecting large swathes of the population.
Human rights organizations are calling for immediate action to address the crisis, including restoring communication networks to facilitate aid and protect civilians. The ongoing conflict and its humanitarian implications remain a critical concern for the international community.
Implications:
The recent displacement of around 400,000 people from the famine-hit Zamzam camp in Sudan has significant humanitarian, geopolitical, and security implications:
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Humanitarian Crisis Escalation: The displacement adds to an already severe humanitarian disaster in Sudan, where millions are affected by conflict and famine. The destruction of vital infrastructure, including the displacement of civilians, exacerbates food insecurity, increases the number of refugees, and hampers aid distribution. The ongoing conflict limits the ability of humanitarian organizations to provide essential services to those in need.
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International Security Concerns: The takeover of a camp sheltering displaced persons by Sudan’s RSF (Rapid Support Forces) could further destabilize the region and embolden armed groups. Such tactics might escalate ethnic and tribal conflicts, which have been a persistent issue in Darfur and other regions of Sudan. The involvement of humanitarian workers being killed adds another layer of complexity to the conflict, as it could deter international support and complicate peace efforts.
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Human Rights Violations: The RSF’s actions, including the reported targeting of civilians, have prompted condemnation from human rights organizations. These violations may lead to increased scrutiny of Sudan’s government and military leaders, with potential legal actions by international bodies such as the International Criminal Court (ICC).
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Impact on Neighboring Countries: Neighboring nations such as Chad, Egypt, and South Sudan may face increased migration pressures as more refugees flee Sudan. The displacement crisis could put a strain on these countries’ resources and heighten tensions along borders, requiring more international coordination and support for regional stability.
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Global Response and Diplomacy: The international community, including the United Nations and humanitarian agencies, will likely face growing pressure to intervene, broker ceasefires, and facilitate humanitarian aid. The UN may call for more significant peacekeeping efforts, while international aid organizations will focus on providing support to those in need, despite the difficulties posed by the volatile situation.
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Famine and Disease Spread: With famine conditions worsening and displaced people congregating in unsanitary conditions, the likelihood of disease outbreaks increases. Malnutrition, cholera, and other infectious diseases may spread rapidly in overcrowded conditions, placing additional burdens on both the Sudanese population and the international community’s response.
Overall Takeaway:
The overall takeaway is that Sudan’s ongoing conflict, particularly the recent RSF takeover of the Zamzam refugee camp, has significantly worsened the humanitarian crisis in the region. Around 400,000 people have been displaced, with the destruction of vital infrastructure and the deaths of both civilians and humanitarian workers. This has deepened famine and security issues, creating a dire situation for the Sudanese population and exacerbating regional instability. The international community faces increasing pressure to intervene, but the challenges in providing aid and securing peace are immense. The situation calls for urgent humanitarian support and coordinated international efforts to address both the immediate needs of the displaced and the broader implications of the ongoing violence.
SOURCES: BARRON’S – Around 400,000 People Displaced From Sudan Famine-hit Camp After RSF Takeover: IOM
REUTERS – Up to 400,000 displaced from Darfur camp after Sudan RSF takeover, UN agency says
AP NEWS – Attacks on famine-hit camps in Sudan’s Darfur leave at least 100 people dead, UN official says
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