Washington – The United States warned on Monday of possible mass atrocities in the Sudanese city of El Obeid, citing reports that the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and allied forces are massing around the city and raising concerns over the safety of civilians.

In a statement, U.S. State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott said the military buildup significantly increases the risk of violence against civilians, attacks on civilian infrastructure and a broader escalation of the conflict in El Obeid and across the Kordofan region.

“There are alarming indications that mass atrocities could be imminent,” Pigott said, warning that further violence could worsen Sudan’s already catastrophic humanitarian crisis.

The warning comes as El Obeid, a strategic hub linking central Sudan with the Darfur and Kordofan regions, faces growing security concerns amid reports of increased military activity around the city.

The United States called on the RSF and allied forces to refrain from any actions that could endanger civilians, obstruct humanitarian assistance or contribute to further atrocities and suffering.

It also urged all parties to comply with their obligations under international humanitarian law, protect civilians and ensure safe passage for people seeking security.

Sudan’s conflict, which erupted in April 2023 between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the RSF, has displaced millions of people and triggered one of the world’s largest humanitarian crises, according to the United Nations.

Washington’s statement followed a recent warning by the UN Security Council over military mobilization around El Obeid and the potential risk of mass atrocities. The Council also called for the protection of civilians, unhindered humanitarian access and respect for Sudan’s unity and sovereignty.

The State Department reiterated that there is no military solution to the conflict and urged the warring parties to pursue a negotiated settlement to end the violence and address worsening humanitarian conditions.

It said such a settlement should proceed without preconditions and pave the way for a political process capable of resolving Sudan’s crisis.

The United States said it would continue working with international partners and Sudanese stakeholders to support humanitarian pauses, facilitate aid delivery and advance efforts toward civilian-led governance and sustainable peace.

The statement concluded by saying that peace and stability remain essential for restoring an independent civilian-led government, preserving Sudan’s unity and meeting the aspirations of the Sudanese people.