RSF Attacks in North Darfur Trigger Civilian Deaths and New Refugee Exodus

TINE, July 5, 2026 - Fresh attacks by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on villages near Tine in North Darfur have killed civilians, injured dozens, and forced thousands of residents to flee toward neighboring Chad, according to local accounts. The attacks targeted six villages along the route between Ambara locality and Tine, following recent battlefield advances by the Joint Force, an alliance of armed movements fighting alongside the Sudanese army. The coalition had recently taken control of several strategic areas in North and West Darfur after clashes with RSF forces. Survivors said a large RSF force launched attacks on the villages, causing widespread destruction, including the burning of homes and markets, the destruction of water sources, and the looting of livestock. The resulting shortages of food and clean water pushed many families to leave their communities and cross toward Chad on foot. The affected villages include Qarboura, Oruwa, Um Marahik, Kourbia, Abu Leiha, and Ana Baji, areas largely inhabited by the Zaghawa community. Residents reported significant civilian casualties, although the exact number remains unclear. The attacks have intensified fears of further displacement in a region already heavily affected by years of conflict and humanitarian crises. The latest violence follows a pattern of previous attacks in parts of North Darfur, where villages have been destroyed and communities displaced amid accusations of ethnic targeting and reprisals linked to local alliances in the wider conflict. The RSF has previously accused residents in these areas of supporting the Joint Force, while humanitarian organizations have repeatedly warned of the impact of continued fighting on civilians across Darfur.