In a recent video address, Sudan’s RSF commander Hemeti accused Egypt of conducting air strikes against his forces near Khartoum, a claim Egypt has denied. Hemeti alleged that Egypt is also training the Sudanese army and supplying it with drones amidst ongoing battles that have intensified since April 2023. The conflict has displaced millions and led to fears of famine. Political analysts suggest these accusations reflect shifting power dynamics involving foreign intervention in the conflict.
Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, widely recognized as Hemeti, the commander of Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF), has accused Egypt of conducting aerial attacks against his troops in the vicinity of Khartoum. In a video statement, Hemeti claimed that his forces in the Jebel Moya area were “treacherously attacked and killed by Egyptian aircraft”. He expressed his frustration at previously remaining silent regarding Egypt’s alleged involvement, stating that he hoped for their withdrawal, but felt compelled to speak out as the situation escalated. In response, the Egyptian foreign ministry categorically denied the allegations and called for international scrutiny to verify Hemeti’s claims. Adding to the tensions, Hemeti accused Egypt of training the Sudanese military and supplying them with drones amidst the ongoing conflict that erupted in April 2023 between the RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), which is allied with Cairo. Political analyst Ammar Fayed suggested that Hemeti’s assertions could signal a shift in the conflict’s balance of power, indicating foreign intervention’s potential role in favor of the SAF. As hostilities continued, the SAF reported significant territorial gains in Khartoum. Hemeti reiterated his accusations, alleging that Egyptian forces employed American-made bombs during the assaults, while also claiming the involvement of Iranian forces and a mix of foreign mercenaries, including individuals from Eritrea and Ukraine. These accusations surfaced shortly after the United States imposed sanctions on Hemeti’s brother, Algoney Hamdan Daglo Musa, for arms procurement on behalf of the RSF. General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the head of Sudan’s armed forces, has reaffirmed that the RSF is receiving support both politically and logistically from various sources, implicitly acknowledging the UAE’s involvement, despite not naming it outright. In a recent address to his troops, Hemeti emphasized that while they had faced overwhelming military force, he remained proud and optimistic about their potential to reclaim lost territory. He claimed that “you were defeated due to overwhelming force and modern aircraft like Sukhoi and MiG-29… In the end, sheer numbers defeated bravery.” As the conflict escalates, the humanitarian situation in Sudan has reached critical levels, with more than 10 million people displaced and reports of famine threats affecting numerous regions. Hemeti’s military rhetoric indicates a deepening commitment to the prolonged violence, suggesting that the conflict may persist for years. Rights groups have voiced concerns over atrocities linked to RSF actions, including crimes against civilians, highlighting the urgent need for intervention and resolution.
The conflict in Sudan has escalated significantly since April 2023, pitting the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) against the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), which is supported by Egypt. The RSF’s commander, Hemeti, has recently alleged that Egypt is conducting airstrikes on his forces, which Egypt denies. This situation reflects the broader geopolitical tensions in the region, with various foreign powers potentially influencing the dynamics of the conflict. Humanitarian conditions in Sudan have deteriorated drastically, with millions displaced and at risk of famine, underscoring the tragic human cost of the ongoing violence. Hemeti’s claims and the SAF’s counter-offensives mark a critical juncture in this multifaceted conflict.
The recent accusations by Hemeti against Egypt signify a troubling escalation in the already volatile conflict between the RSF and SAF in Sudan. These allegations, coupled with the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region, highlight the complex interplay of local and foreign influences. The continued fighting not only threatens to prolong the suffering of countless civilians but also poses significant challenges to peace efforts. The situation remains fluid, and the potential for further escalation underscores the need for international attention and intervention.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
