Speaking on state television, Burhan said military and security leaders had assessed the situation and concluded that remaining in the city would cause “greater destruction.” He stated, “To protect the remaining citizens and the city from further devastation, we have decided to withdraw to a safer area.”
Burhan added that the move was part of “a military operation imposed on the Sudanese people,” reaffirming that “the Sudanese Armed Forces will ultimately prevail.” The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have not yet commented on the withdrawal.
El-Fasher, under RSF siege since May 10, 2024, has been a major humanitarian hub for all five Darfur states. Heavy fighting between the army and the RSF continues around the city, which the paramilitary group is attempting to capture from five directions. The conflict, which began in April 2023, has already killed thousands and displaced millions across Sudan.