Sudan’s ongoing conflict has seen the army advance against the RSF, leading to mixed reactions from civilians. Activists report a rise in brutality from both sides, worsening the humanitarian crisis which has resulted in significant displacement and ethnic targeting. As violence continues, civilians suffer immensely from home destruction, lack of essential services, and escalating fear, underscoring the need for immediate humanitarian assistance.
As Sudan’s army makes advances in Khartoum against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), public reactions among Sudanese civilians are divided. Many view the army as a liberator, while activists report increasing brutal tactics from both sides, worsening the humanitarian crisis. In a recent artillery attack, RSF forces killed at least 56 individuals in a crowded market.
Due to the conflict, the Sudanese army is facing intense resistance, particularly in central Khartoum and the Sharq el-Nile district. Reports indicate that the army has imposed a partial siege on these areas, limiting civilian escape routes. Activist Augreis describes the situation, revealing that families attempting to flee have been targeted and killed by army drones and fighter jets.
The ongoing battle since April 2023 has precipitated what is termed the largest humanitarian crisis in the world, displacing approximately 12.5 million people as armed violence claims tens of thousands of lives. Reports indicate that the RSF has forcibly taken over land and properties belonging to indigenous communities. Furthermore, with the army making headway in Khartoum and Omdurman, numerous RSF fighters have fled back to their stronghold in Darfur.
Despite some displaced individuals returning home, they find their neighborhoods devastated, lacking essential services such as water and electricity. Activist Montasser reflects on their bittersweet return, noting widespread destruction and looting inflicted by the RSF. Many families remain displaced, awaiting assistance to rebuild their lives in the aftermath of the conflict.
Amid this chaos, fear prevails among civilians who have left Khartoum recently, with many alleging that they are being targeted based on their ethnic backgrounds. Augreis articulates the distress felt by residents originally from southern or western Sudan, revealing a sense of mistrust towards the army. In Wad Madani, army-backed fighters have reportedly committed ethnic cleansing, further escalating tensions and fear among communities previously residing in Khartoum.
Violence and looting have been rampant in the past weeks, as RSF forces plunder markets and homes before retreating. Local relief worker Musab shared troubling accounts of RSF fighters raiding his home, seizing valuables and threatening his safety. These tactics have compelled him to continually move, as he expresses more fear towards the RSF than the army amidst this instability.
The humanitarian landscape remains bleak as this brutal battle continues to unfold, leaving millions affected. The need for immediate international attention and assistance is paramount to alleviate the suffering of innocent civilians caught in this turmoil.
In summary, the ongoing conflict in Sudan between the army and the RSF has led to a deeply concerning humanitarian crisis. While some civilians perceive the army as a liberating force, the increasing brutality from both sides exacerbates the nightmare many face. Displacement, ethnic targeting, and resource shortages characterize the daily lives of Sudanese people, emphasizing the urgent need for international intervention to protect and support the affected population.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
