UN Renews Call to Lift Siege on El Fasher, Ensure Safe Passage for CiviliansNew York, 7 Oct (ONA) — The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) warned that fighting in El Fasher, the besieged capital of Sudan’s North Darfur State, continues to drive people from their homes, expressing grave concern over worsening conditions in and around the city, which is besieged by the Rapid Support Forces. The UN and its partners stand ready to deliver life-saving assistance once access to El Fasher is granted, UN Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said, adding “At the same time, we continue to press for increased UN presence on the ground in north Darfur and all areas of need.” “We once again call for the lifting the siege of El Fasher; civilians must be protected, and those fleeing must be afforded safe passage. Unimpeded humanitarian access must be facilitated to reach hundreds of thousands of civilians who have been trapped in this city for over 500 days,” he added. Since the outbreak of the conflict on 15 April 2023, between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, Sudan has witnessed a massive displacement crisis, with more than 12 million people forced to flee their homes — making it the worst displacement crisis in the world.— Ends/Khalid