The United States has warned that "mass atrocities" could be imminent in the Sudanese city of El-Obeid, citing reports that the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and allied groups are massing around the strategically important city.

In a statement on Monday, the US State Department said it was "deeply concerned" by developments around El-Obeid, which has been under siege for months amid Sudan’s ongoing conflict between the RSF and the regular army.

“There are alarming indications that mass atrocities could be imminent,” the department said.

US, UN sound alarm

The warning comes days after the UN Security Council expressed similar concerns and called on RSF forces surrounding El-Obeid to halt any escalation.

International fears have been heightened by memories of the October 2025 assault on Al-Fasher, which UN officials said bore the “hallmarks of genocide” and resulted in widespread civilian suffering.

The United States urged the RSF and allied forces to avoid actions that could endanger civilians, obstruct humanitarian aid or fuel further violence.

Humanitarian crisis deepens

Sudan’s conflict, which erupted in April 2023, has triggered one of the world's worst humanitarian emergencies.

According to the United Nations, the war has killed tens of thousands of people and displaced more than 11 million, creating the largest displacement and hunger crises globally.

With tensions mounting around El-Obeid, international pressure is growing for all parties to protect civilians and allow humanitarian assistance to reach those trapped by the fighting.