Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) reclaimed the Al-Zurug base in North Darfur from rival forces connected with the army. This skirmish highlights ongoing ethnic tensions and casualties among civilians, with significant fighting observed since April 2023. The RSF’s control over this strategic base may also pave the way for its parallel governance initiatives.
The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan have reportedly regained control over a critical logistical base located in North Darfur, a move confirmed by the paramilitary group on Sunday. This development occurred just a day after rival forces, allied with Sudan’s army, took possession of the Al-Zurug base. This site has been strategically utilized by the RSF throughout the ongoing conflict that commenced in April 2023, particularly for supply routes from neighboring Chad and Libya. The skirmishes in North Darfur have escalated amid the intense struggle between the RSF and the army’s Joint Forces, comprising former rebel groups.
During the recent altercation, both sides have suffered losses, as dozens of RSF soldiers reportedly died while vehicles and supplies were captured. Analysts warn that this incident may exacerbate existing ethnic tensions, particularly between the Arab tribes associated with the RSF and the Zaghawa tribe predominant in the Joint Forces. The RSF has accused the Joint Forces of perpetrating violence against civilians, alleging that their operations were marked by ethnic cleansing and other atrocities.
On the other hand, the Joint Forces contend that the Al-Zurug base was previously utilized by the RSF for operations targeted at civilians in strategic locations, including Al-Fashir, which is one of the most active fronts in the ongoing conflict. Recent UN reports indicate that since the clashes intensified in Al-Fashir in mid-April, at least 782 civilians have lost their lives due to heavy artillery attacks, drone strikes, and airstrikes from both the RSF and the army. Activists from the local Al-Fashir Resistance Committee reported a barrage of 30 missiles targeting various areas within the city. Regaining control of Al-Zurug base is expected to strengthen the RSF’s objective of establishing a parallel governance structure in the region, potentially undermining the national government based in Port Sudan.
The conflict in Sudan has been marked by a power struggle between the army and the RSF since its escalation in April 2023. The North Darfur region has witnessed some of the fiercest fighting due to its strategic location and the presence of various ethnic groups. The RSF, originating from former militias, has been involved in significant logistical operations to sustain its campaigns against the army and allied Joint Forces. Tensions have also heightened between tribes in the region, creating a volatile environment that can lead to widespread humanitarian crises.
In summary, the RSF’s recent retaking of the Al-Zurug base highlights the ongoing complexities of the conflict in Sudan, characterized by fierce competition for control between rival forces. With rising civilian casualties and increased ethnic tensions, the situation remains highly volatile. Analysts suggest that the RSF’s control over this base could aid its ambitions to establish greater influence in the region, further complicating an already precarious political landscape.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
