The Sudanese army has achieved significant territory reclamation in Khartoum amid intense clashes with the RSF. Despite the army’s advancements, humanitarian conditions are dire, with a growing famine impacting over 100,000 residents in the capital. The conflict has displaced millions and led to numerous civilian casualties, highlighting Sudan’s severe humanitarian crisis as forces on both sides have committed atrocities.
In recent developments, the Sudanese army has made significant advancements in recapturing parts of Khartoum, the war-torn capital, from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Residents report heavy clashes, with shrapnel and stray bullets affecting neighborhoods. Notable areas reclaimed include the national mint. Although the RSF still maintains most control in Khartoum itself, the army holds the broader regions of Omdurman, Bahri, and Khartoum.
With the army regaining nearly complete control of Gezira state, it is poised to further pursue its objective of reclaiming Khartoum, seeking to dismantle nearly two years of RSF siege. General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the military leader, predicted, “Very soon there will be no rebels in Khartoum.” The urgency for conflict resolution is heightened as humanitarian conditions worsen, with reports indicating famine affecting over 100,000 individuals in Khartoum alone.
Since the onset of conflict nearly two years ago between General Burhan and his rival RSF leader, Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, approximately 12 million people have been displaced and numerous civilians have been tragically killed. Various international agencies highlight Sudan as facing the worst humanitarian crisis globally, with accusations of severe atrocities lodged against both the army and RSF, including claims of genocide in Darfur.
Amidst the turmoil, the army has received considerable support from local residents in recently reclaimed territories due to the RSF’s reputation for violence, including killings and sexual violence. The RSF has dismissed the army’s progress as “lies and rumours,” consistent with their previous pattern of denials during retreats.
Experts note that the army’s successes are attributed to an increase in personnel and military resources, particularly following the recapture of key military sites. However, there are concerns regarding possible reprisals against those perceived as RSF collaborators. Civilians like Mustafa express anxiety over potential consequences while navigating survival in such a chaotic environment, fearing arbitrary punishment as the conflicts intensify.
As the army draws closer to Khartoum’s confines, residents such as Amir are left awaiting an uncertain outcome. Undoubtedly, the precarious balance between survival and collaboration in a war setting raises fears among many citizens, leaving them apprehensive about their fate amidst the continuing conflict.
The ongoing civil war in Sudan erupted between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces in April 2023, stemming from a power struggle between military leaders. This conflict has exacerbated pre-existing humanitarian crises, leading to widespread famine, displacement of millions, and numerous civilian casualties. As the army seeks to regain authority over Khartoum and other critical areas, the humanitarian situation remains dire, prompting concerns for the civilian population caught in the violence.
In conclusion, the Sudanese army’s recent territorial gains signify a pivotal moment in the ongoing civil war, yet the humanitarian crisis continues to deepen. Civilians remain caught in a crossfire characterized by violence and instability. With conflicting reports from both military factions, the future remains uncertain for those enduring the consequences of this prolonged conflict. Urgent international attention and aid are necessary to address the escalating famine and provide relief to suffering populations.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
