Pakistan, Nov. 19 -- The United Nations is intensifying efforts to gain access to al-Fashir, a city in Darfur beset by famine and reports of mass reprisals since the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) takeover. Aid chief Tom Fletcher described the situation as deeply alarming.

Fletcher warned that the city could become a "crime scene" if systematic executions, detentions, and sexual violence are confirmed, and emphasized the monumental challenge of delivering aid under such conditions. Many residents remain unaccounted for after the paramilitary group's siege.

He said the UN is pressing for safe passage of humanitarian convoys into the city and for survivors to leave, noting that negotiations with the RSF are "super delicate" but hopeful about ...