Sudan’s largest oil refinery has been set ablaze amid ongoing civil war, with military forces claiming control. The facility, previously secure, suffered damage during recent skirmishes, raising alarms about the humanitarian crisis. Satellite images confirmed the extent of the fires, highlighting the dire impact of the conflict on Sudan’s infrastructure.
Recent conflict surrounding Sudan’s largest oil refinery has resulted in substantial damage to the facility, as satellite data confirmed that flames engulfed the complex. The fighting occurred amidst the ongoing civil war, which has escalated into a humanitarian crisis marked by famine. Military forces loyal to General Abdel al-Fattah Burhan announced they had captured the refinery, owned jointly by Sudan’s government and China National Petroleum Corporation, further intensifying the conflict with the rebel Rapid Support Force (RSF).
The al-Jaili refinery, located approximately 60 kilometers from Khartoum, has been a focal point in the civil conflict. Since the RSF took control of it in April 2023, they fortified the area with landmines to deter advances. While the facility was largely operational, it suffered significant damage during recent attacks that ignited fires across its expanse, as indicated by data from NASA satellites monitoring wildfires worldwide.
Satellite imagery captured shortly after noon GMT showed extensive fires at multiple locations within the refinery. These images revealed flames reaching high into the sky, with oil storage tanks charred and covered in soot. The continuous warfare and international diplomatic efforts, including allegations of genocide against RSF forces, have failed to quell the violence, raising concerns about the devastation of Sudan’s infrastructure and worsening humanitarian situation.
The civil war in Sudan has escalated significantly, leading to widespread violence and humanitarian crises. The al-Jaili oil refinery has become a strategic asset in the conflict, illustrating the broader implications of the war on Sudan’s oil production capabilities. The involvement of the RSF and military factions highlights the power struggle and geopolitical tensions that exacerbate the situation, with international observers condemning actions that contribute to the suffering of the Sudanese people.
The capture and subsequent destruction of Sudan’s largest oil refinery by warring factions underscore the devastating effects of the civil war. As fighting continues and international diplomatic efforts falter, the humanitarian crisis deepens, revealing the tragic consequences of power struggles over national resources. The situation not only threatens the oil supply but also places civilians in peril, demanding urgent attention from the global community to address the escalating conflict.
Original Source: www.scmp.com
