World

Thousands flee Sudan’s Kordofan fighting for relative safety of El Obeid

Al Jazeera · 2026-08-23

AI SUMMARY

• What happened: Tens of thousands have been displaced in Sudan's Kordofan region due to escalating fighting between the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, with over 5,000 families seeking refuge in El Obeid in just one week. • Why it matters: The conflict has created a significant humanitarian crisis, overwhelming local resources and infrastructure in El Obeid, as displaced individuals arrive in desperate need of food, shelter, and medical assistance. • What to watch next: The international community's response to the crisis and the ongoing efforts of humanitarian agencies to provide aid, as well as developments in the fighting and potential resolutions to the conflict.

**Title: Thousands Flee Sudan’s Kordofan Fighting for Relative Safety of El Obeid**

In recent days, the ongoing conflict in Sudan's Kordofan region has led to a significant humanitarian crisis, with tens of thousands of individuals displaced due to escalating violence between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Reports indicate that over 5,000 families have sought refuge in El Obeid, a city that has become a temporary haven for those fleeing the turmoil.

The fighting in Kordofan has intensified, prompting many residents to abandon their homes in search of safety. The conflict, which has seen both sides engaged in fierce confrontations, has created a dire situation for civilians caught in the crossfire. As the violence escalates, the number of displaced individuals continues to rise, exacerbating an already critical humanitarian situation in the region.

El Obeid, the capital of North Kordofan, has seen a rapid influx of displaced families over the past week. Local authorities and humanitarian organizations are struggling to provide adequate support and resources to accommodate the growing number of people seeking safety. The arrival of thousands of families in such a short period has put immense pressure on the city's infrastructure and services.

Witnesses report that many of those fleeing have arrived with little more than the clothes on their backs, having left behind their homes and possessions in the chaos of the conflict. The need for food, shelter, and medical assistance is urgent, as many displaced individuals are in vulnerable conditions after enduring the hardships of fleeing violence.

Humanitarian agencies are mobilizing efforts to assist the displaced populations in El Obeid, but the scale of the crisis poses significant challenges. The ongoing fighting complicates logistics and hampers the delivery of aid to those in need. As the situation unfolds, the international community is closely monitoring developments in Kordofan and the humanitarian response in El Obeid.

The conflict in Sudan has deep historical roots, with various political and social factors contributing to the ongoing instability. The current fighting between the army and the RSF is part of a broader struggle for power and control within the country. As the violence continues, the plight of civilians remains a pressing concern, with many facing an uncertain future.

As the humanitarian crisis in Kordofan deepens, the situation in El Obeid serves as a stark reminder of the impact of conflict on ordinary lives. The need for a peaceful resolution to the fighting and a comprehensive approach to address the underlying issues is more critical than ever to prevent further displacement and suffering in Sudan.

Source: Al Jazeera
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