Sudan’s army is nearing control of the Presidential Palace from the RSF amid a two-year conflict, which has resulted in the largest humanitarian crisis globally. The RSF maintains control in parts of Khartoum while the army stages a comeback. Both factions continue fighting with no peace negotiations initiated, and allegations of war crimes have been made against both sides.
Sudan’s army is poised to regain control over the Presidential Palace in Khartoum from the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), as reported by state television. This advancement signifies a pivotal moment in the two-year conflict, which is currently jeopardizing the nation’s stability. Since the onset of war in April 2023, the RSF initially captured the palace and much of the capital but has faced a resurgence from the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) in recent months.
The RSF has established a parallel government this year and retains control over various regions of Khartoum, Omdurman, and parts of western Sudan. They are currently engaged in a battle for control of al-Fashir, the army’s final stronghold in Darfur. Should the army secure the capital, it may fast-track their takeover of central Sudan and solidify the existing territorial divide between the military factions.
Despite ongoing military confrontations, peace talks have not commenced, as both sides are committed to continued combat across the country. The war ignited from a power conflict between Sudan’s army and the RSF prior to a planned transition to civilian governance.
The United Nations has labeled the conflict as the world’s largest humanitarian crisis, resulting in widespread famine and disease throughout Sudan. Both factions face allegations of committing war crimes, with specific charges of genocide directed at the RSF, though both parties refute these claims. Recent weeks have seen intense fighting over the palace, with RSF leaders ordering their forces to fiercely defend it.
Explosions from army airstrikes and drone attacks targeting central Khartoum have been reported. The army has maintained aerial superiority over the RSF, although the paramilitary group has recently demonstrated enhanced drone capabilities. The RSF claims its forces have been advancing towards the Army General Command in central Khartoum, while witnesses indicate combat from southern Khartoum.
The army’s progress has garnered support from residents previously displaced by RSF actions, which have included looting and arbitrary executions. Amidst claims of abuses, the RSF asserts that those responsible will be held accountable. Activists in Omdurman reported instances of robbery by soldiers as returned civilians face renewed security concerns, though the military has denied such allegations.
In conclusion, the Sudanese Armed Forces are nearing a significant milestone in reclaiming the Presidential Palace from the RSF, indicating potential shifts in the ongoing conflict. The humanitarian crisis exacerbated by this war continues to unfold, with both factions facing severe accusations. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing military engagements and no peace talks on the horizon. As the conflict persists, the stability of Sudan hangs in the balance, underscoring the urgent need for resolution and humanitarian assistance.
Original Source: www.cnn.com
