Fighting near Sudan’s largest oil refinery has led to extensive fires on the premises, with military forces claiming control in the ongoing civil war against the RSF. The refinery, essential for oil production, had remained primarily intact until recent attacks sparked significant fires. This incident symbolizes the broader humanitarian crisis as international mediation efforts have stalled, leaving the conflict unresolved.
Recent satellite imaging indicates that fighting near Sudan’s largest oil refinery has caused it to catch fire, generating significant pollution around the capital city. Forces aligned with the Sudanese military, under General Abdel al-Fattah Burhan, have asserted their control over the refinery, significant in their ongoing civil conflict with the rebel group known as the Rapid Support Force (RSF). The al-Jaili refinery, roughly 60 kilometers from Khartoum, previously remained unharmed despite prior attacks, where RSF had claimed its control since April 2023.
The military’s conquest of the refinery marks a pivotal moment in the protracted civil war as it symbolizes control over vital resources. The RSF had previously fortified the area with landmines to hinder military advances, but explosive action on Thursday, leading to multiple fires, was captured through Nasa satellite data. Satellite visuals from Planet Labs PBC revealed significant flames engulfing vast sections of the facility, evidencing extensive damage to oil storage tanks and infrastructure.
Sudan has been embroiled in a civil war primarily between the Sudanese military and the Rapid Support Force since April 2023. With humanitarian conditions worsening, international mediation efforts have not succeeded in ceasing hostilities, and the situation continues to be characterized by violent confrontations. The al-Jaili refinery represents not only a crucial oil production facility, capable of processing 100,000 barrels daily, but also a strategic asset in the ongoing conflict between governmental forces and rebel entities. The escalation of violence surrounding the refinery highlights the dire humanitarian crisis resulting from the civil war.
The burning of Sudan’s largest oil refinery underscores the severe ramifications of the civil war, affecting not only military dynamics but also exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. As control over critical infrastructure becomes increasingly contested, the situation continues to deteriorate. Despite international involvement and pressure, the conflict persists unabated, demanding urgent attention from global humanitarian and diplomatic organizations.
Original Source: www.scmp.com
