Sudan’s army chief, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, declared Khartoum ‘free’ from the RSF following a resurgence of military action that recaptured the presidential palace. Although this marks a pivotal moment in the conflict that began in April 2023, analysts warn that the RSF remains active and has formed new alliances. The ongoing war has led to catastrophic humanitarian consequences, with millions displaced and numerous rights abuses reported.
On Wednesday, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the army chief of Sudan, proclaimed Khartoum’s presidential palace as being free from the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) after a protracted conflict. In a statement broadcasted via state television, Burhan affirmed, “Khartoum is free, it’s done,” following an extensive operation by his forces to reclaim control over the central state institutions of Khartoum.
This occasion marked Burhan’s first visit to the palace since the military takeover, as he traversed the war-damaged structure in military fatigues, flanked by troops. Amidst the chaos of shattered glass and abandoned living quarters, soldiers celebrated whilst chanting religious praises.
The conflict erupted in April 2023 between Burhan and his former deputy, RSF commander Mohamed Hamdan Daglo. The RSF quickly dominated the government district, compelling governmental authorities to relocate to Port Sudan. Despite the recent setbacks inflicted upon the RSF, experts caution that the conflict persists, accentuated by the RSF’s announcement regarding a new alliance in southern Sudan.
On the same day, the army reported securing Khartoum’s airport from RSF militants and encircling the paramilitary faction in its last significant stronghold located south of the city center. This military success followed accusations of the army conducting one of the most lethal air strikes in the war’s history, particularly devastating a market in Darfur, leading to a report of 270 casualties.
As the army advances, witnesses note that remnants of the RSF militia are reportedly fleeing southward across the White Nile, utilizing the Jebel Awliya bridge to escape towards their remaining positions in Darfur. The RSF has yet to publicly respond to these developments.
Since the outbreak of hostilities, tens of thousands have perished, with more than 12 million displaced, resulting in unparalleled humanitarian crises and division within the nation. The army currently governs the eastern and northern regions while the RSF maintains control over a significant portion of Darfur and parts of southern Sudan.
On the same day, the RSF formally announced a military coalition with the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North, reinforcing their strategic positions. The army has seen a resurgence in strength after initial hardships and has managed to penetrate central Sudan effectively, reclaiming Khartoum.
Reports indicate that over 3.5 million individuals have been forced to flee the capital, with millions more facing dire conditions as both contend with hunger and violence. In central Khartoum, footage has emerged showing civilians rejoicing at the RSF’s retreat, while celebrations were observed in Port Sudan as crowds hailed the army’s advances.
Witnesses confirm that RSF combatants have vacated residential areas, having previously occupied numerous homes. Throughout the conflict, the RSF has faced numerous accusations of looting civilian properties along with documented instances of severe rights abuses, including sexual violence. The United States has imposed sanctions on both Burhan and Daglo, alleging war crimes and specifically accusing RSF leadership of genocidal acts in Darfur.
The United Nations continues to express grave concerns regarding the ongoing assaults on civilians, including air strikes and artillery fire directed at public spaces. The humanitarian coordinator reports, “A market — meant to be a place of daily life and livelihood — turned into a scene of devastation.” Experts warn that the RSF may initiate revenge assaults on affected communities, highlighting the complex dynamics of the ongoing conflict.
In conclusion, the conflict in Sudan remains intensely volatile, characterized by the army’s declaration of Khartoum as free from the RSF after significant military engagements. Despite this territorial gain, challenges persist, with the RSF forming new alliances and continuing its operations in various regions. The humanitarian situation remains dire, prompting widespread concern from the international community regarding the impact on civilians and the potential for further escalation in violence.
Original Source: www.sanfordherald.com
