The Kordofan Observatory issued a statement on September 21, 2026, warning of the risks of military operations expanding to the Al-Mazrub area in North Kordofan. The observatory expressed concerns that civilians may be exposed to violations and widespread displacement if the area becomes a battleground between the army and Rapid Support Forces. According to the observatory, the area has enjoyed relative stability since the outbreak of war over three years ago, thanks to the role of local administration in managing the affairs of residents and maintaining local security.
The Kordofan Observatory stated that the leadership of Al-Mazrub has maintained a neutral stance on the conflict between the army and Rapid Support Forces, seeking to spare the area from military confrontations despite the polarization that accompanied the conflict. The observatory noted that the recent military developments in North Kordofan, including the army's advances in several areas and the withdrawal of Rapid Support Forces from controlled areas, have raised concerns among residents of Al-Mazrub.
The observatory reported that the army's advance stopped at the Al-Jumama area and did not reach Al-Mazrub, but the recent developments have led to an escalation of fears among residents of the area being drawn into the conflict and the potential for civilian casualties, displacement, and deterioration of humanitarian and security conditions. The observatory received testimonies from residents of Al-Mazrub indicating that some individuals have begun to flee to other areas, including the cities of Al-Ubayyid and Omdurman.
The Kordofan Observatory called on the parties to the conflict to spare Al-Mazrub and populated areas from military operations and to refrain from using residential areas or their surroundings in confrontations. The observatory also urged humanitarian and human rights organizations and international parties to monitor developments in the area and be prepared to respond to any potential displacement or humanitarian needs if security conditions deteriorate.
The observatory emphasized that maintaining the stability that Al-Mazrub has enjoyed throughout the years of war is a shared responsibility and stressed the need to prioritize the protection of civilians in light of the ongoing military developments in North Kordofan. The observatory's statement was reported by Radio Dabanga, a local news outlet.
The Kordofan Observatory's warning comes as the conflict between the army and Rapid Support Forces continues to affect various regions of Sudan. The situation in North Kordofan has been closely watched by local and international observers, who are concerned about the humanitarian implications of the conflict. The observatory's call for the protection of civilians and the avoidance of military operations in populated areas reflects the growing concerns about the impact of the conflict on vulnerable populations.
Key points
- The Kordofan Observatory has warned of the dangers of extending military operations to the Al-Mazrub area in North Kordofan, Sudan.
