The Sudanese army has taken full control of the Presidential Palace in Khartoum, a pivotal development in a two-year conflict that has exacerbated Sudan’s humanitarian crisis. Intermittent gunfire was reported as the army conducts operations against the paramilitary RSF, which still controls significant areas of the capital. Accusations of war crimes are rampant, with both sides vowing to continue their fight amidst an absence of peace negotiations.
On Friday, the Sudanese army announced that it had seized full control of the Presidential Palace in Khartoum, marking a critical advancement in the ongoing conflict that has gripped the country for two years. According to Sudan state TV and military sources, the army is currently conducting search operations in the vicinity of the palace aimed at apprehending members of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Witnesses reported hearing intermittent gunfire in various areas of the capital as these events unfolded.
The prolonged conflict in Sudan has escalated into what the United Nations has deemed the world’s largest humanitarian crisis, resulting in widespread famine and disease across affected regions. Both the army and RSF have faced severe accusations, including war crimes and, notably for the RSF, genocide. However, both factions maintain their innocence regarding these allegations.
Initially, the RSF quickly gained control of the palace and large portions of Khartoum at the war’s onset in April 2023. However, recent months have seen the Sudanese Armed Forces make significant gains, gradually advancing towards the palace along the banks of the River Nile. The RSF continues to control key areas within Khartoum and the neighboring city of Omdurman, as well as parts of western Sudan, where it seeks to dismantle the army’s remaining stronghold in Darfur, specifically in al-Fashir.
Seizing the capital could expedite the army’s consolidation of power over central Sudan and entrench the territorial divide between the conflicting forces. Both the army and RSF have reiterated their commitment to continue fighting for control over the entire nation, despite the absence of any substantial peace negotiations. The conflict was initially ignited by a power struggle preceding a planned transition to civilian governance.
The Sudanese army’s recent capture of the Presidential Palace in Khartoum represents a significant shift in the ongoing conflict, characterized by its humanitarian ramifications and territorial disputes. The situation remains dire, with accusations of war crimes and ongoing fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the RSF, both factions remain committed to achieving dominance over Sudan. The humanitarian crisis continues to worsen, highlighting the urgent need for peace talks and resolution.
Original Source: ntvkenya.co.ke
