Sudan’s military has regained key territories in central Khartoum from paramilitary forces, including the presidential palace and critical infrastructures. While these advances signal a potential shift in power, the country remains divided, with the RSF continuing stronghold in Darfur. The conflict persists amidst ongoing civilian casualties and military exchanges.
On Saturday, Sudan’s military declared the seizure of significant locations in central Khartoum from paramilitary forces. Army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan emphasized “full liberation” as they recaptured the presidential palace. Army spokesman Nabil Abdallah reported an ongoing offensive against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), listing key buildings retaken, including the Central Bank and state intelligence headquarters.
Despite progress in Khartoum, the conflict has fragmented Sudan, with the army controlling the east and north while RSF dominates Darfur and parts of the south. Reports have emerged of civilian casualties due to an RSF attack in North Darfur, far from the capital. The initial incursion of paramilitaries in April 2023 resulted in widespread looting of national institutions in Khartoum.
An RSF source acknowledged troop withdrawals in central Khartoum, but affirmed that combat continues, particularly near the airport, which has suffered extensive damage. After regaining the presidential palace, the army experienced a retaliatory drone strike from the RSF that resulted in multiple fatalities, including journalists and army personnel.
Photographs reveal significant structural damage to the presidential palace, which was established with Chinese funding roughly a decade prior. The battle for the city’s core could solidify military authority in the capital, but is unlikely to conclude ongoing hostilities. Recent victories have permitted the army to secure vital transport routes across the Blue and White Nile rivers.
Since conflict erupted in April 2023, the military, under Burhan’s command, has confronted RSF led by his former deputy, Mohamed Hamdan Daglo. Following a series of setbacks, military momentum shifted late last year with a counteroffensive restoring control over much of Khartoum.
Burhan, in a video address, stressed that his forces are making systematic progress toward complete liberation. He assured supporters, “the battle is not over, we will continue,” while army sources indicated RSF fighters have retreated to fortified positions in central districts, escalating skirmishes.
Analysts warn that even if the military successfully regains full control over greater Khartoum, the wider conflict, which has resulted in significant loss of life and displacement, may persist. RSF is reportedly reinforcing its presence in Darfur as army successes threaten its logistical operations from Libya. Activists report a recent RSF assault in Al-Malha, North Darfur, claiming dozens of lives, further exacerbating the region’s humanitarian crisis.
Overall, the Sudanese military has made substantial advances in Khartoum, reclaiming strategic buildings and gaining momentum against the RSF. However, the situation remains precarious with ongoing civilian casualties and territorial disputes, indicating that the conflict is far from resolution. The fight for control, especially in Darfur, continues to escalate, emphasizing the complexities surrounding the conflict in Sudan.
Original Source: www.kulr8.com
