AUC Chairperson condemns attack on civilians in besieged El Fasher mosque drone strike
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (PANA) - The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has “strongly” condemned the “heinous drone strike” carried out on Friday against civilians gathered for the dawn (Fajr) prayer at a mosque in the besieged El Fasher city in North Darfur, which claimed the lives of more than 75 innocent worshippers.
A statement issued by the AU on Saturday said the Chairperson had emphasised that this “reprehensible act” constitutes a flagrant violation of fundamental human values and principles, as well as international humanitarian law.
“He conveys his deepest condolences to the bereaved families and to the people of Sudan during this moment of grief,” the statement said.
It added that the Chairperson reiterated his urgent call for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in Sudan, to end the appalling suffering inflicted upon civilians, in line with the commitments undertaken in the Jeddah Agreement of 20 May 2023.
“He further underscores the imperative of inclusive political dialogue as the only viable path towards a just, peaceful, and sustainable resolution of the conflict in Sudan.”
The statement reafirmed the AUC's unwavering solidarity with the people of Sudan and its readiness to work closely with all stakeholders—Sudanese and international alike—in support of efforts aimed at restoring peace, security, national cohesion, and stability in the country.
The UN said at least 75 people were killed in a mosque in the besieged city in the west of the war-torn country with images from the site of the strike showing mangled metal roofing that used to provide cover for worshippers.
It comes as the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) continue their push to take control of El Fasher, as they battle forces of the military government.
The UN Humanitarian Coordinator in Sudan, Denise Brown, issued a statement saying she was “gravely alarmed” by the strike in the besieged capital of North Darfur state.
“International humanitarian law demands the protection of mosques and the civilians worshipping in them,” she said.
“It is also a war crime to intentionally direct attacks against buildings dedicated to religion. This attack, reportedly carried out by the Rapid Support Forces, must be investigated and the perpetrators held accountable.”
UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric reiterated the longstanding call for “an immediate cessation of fire in and around El Fasher”, adding that humanitarian access for “personnel and supplies must be facilitated in order for us to reach those in need”.
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