The Sudanese army has retaken Khartoum airport from the RSF, marking a key military victory in their ongoing conflict. The humanitarian crisis is worsening, with millions displaced and ongoing rights abuses reported. The international response includes sanctions against military leaders accused of genocide.
The Sudanese army announced on Wednesday that it has regained control of Khartoum airport from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and has positioned itself strategically in southern areas of the capital. Spokesman Nabil Abdallah confirmed that the airport is now “fully secured” after military operations began in April 2023 against the RSF. This recapture followed a series of significant victories, including the seizure of the presidential palace and various state institutions from the RSF.
In the ongoing conflict, the army has successfully encircled the crucial Jebel Awliya region from multiple directions, creating pressure on RSF fighters, who are reportedly retreating across the White Nile. Military sources indicate that remnants of RSF forces are fleeing but have not provided details on their next strategic moves. Eyewitness accounts indicate that RSF fighters are withdrawing south towards Jebel Awliya, although the group has not commented on the developments.
The humanitarian situation in Sudan has escalated dramatically due to the war, which has claimed tens of thousands of lives and displaced over 12 million people, leading to widespread hunger and rights abuses. The conflict has effectively divided the country, with the army controlling the northern and eastern regions and the RSF predominantly in the western and southern territories.
The Sudanese army has regained momentum following several losses last year, and now appears on the verge of securing Khartoum. The situation remains dire, with the United Nations estimating that over 3.5 million people have fled the capital while many others face significant dangers from their homes. In a show of resilience, residents in central Khartoum have taken to social media to celebrate the RSF’s withdrawal amidst ongoing violence.
Locals have reported an exodus of RSF fighters from occupied homes, where they allegedly looted civilian properties. International bodies, including the United States, have sanctioned key military leaders from both the army and RSF over serious allegations of massive human rights violations and genocide, specifically relating to the conflict in Darfur. The UN continues to express concern over violence against civilians and warns of potential revenge attacks by the RSF against suspected supporters of the army, further complicating the war-torn landscape of Sudan.
The Sudanese army’s recapture of Khartoum airport marks a significant shift in the ongoing conflict with the RSF, showcasing the increased military successes of the government forces. The war’s toll on the civilian population remains catastrophic, with widespread displacement and severe humanitarian crises. The international community is closely monitoring the situation due to the ongoing rights abuses and potential escalation of violence.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
