UAE-Backed RSF Accused of Massacre in El-Fasher as Satellite Images Reveal Blood-Stained Streets

Newly released Maxar satellite imagery, analyzed by the Yale Humanitarian Research Lab (HRL), reveals vivid red discolorations — believed to be blood stains — spread across residential areas of El-Fasher, in Sudan’s North Darfur region, suggesting mass killings of civilians.

The shocking images show large patches of red across the ground between and around houses, consistent with widespread violence and civilian massacres. Researchers say the evidence “strongly indicates” systematic killings carried out in the besieged city.

Local reports and human rights observers have accused the United Arab Emirates-backed Rapid Support Forces (RSF) of orchestrating the massacre amid their ongoing assault on El-Fasher — the last major stronghold resisting RSF control in Darfur.

Witnesses describe entire neighborhoods turned into killing zones as RSF fighters reportedly targeted civilians, looted homes, and destroyed infrastructure. The RSF, led by Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (Hemedti), has long faced accusations of atrocities and ethnic violence in Darfur.

The alleged massacre marks another grim chapter in Sudan’s brutal civil conflict, which has displaced millions and sparked growing international condemnation. Analysts warn that continued foreign backing — particularly from the UAE, which has been accused of supplying weapons and funds to the RSF — risks deepening the humanitarian crisis and prolonging the war.

Human rights organizations are calling for an independent international investigation into the El-Fasher killings and urging the United Nations to hold accountable those responsible for war crimes and crimes against humanity.