Sudan’s army has declared a significant victory by retaking the capital, Khartoum, after months of intense conflict against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
Military Claims Control of Khartoum
The Sudanese army has announced that it has successfully cleared RSF fighters from Khartoum, nearly two years after losing control of the city to the paramilitary group. Military spokesman Nabil Abdullah stated that forces had „forcibly cleansed the last pockets of the remnants of the Daglo terrorist militia in Khartoum locality.” This declaration follows army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan’s announcement of a „free” Khartoum while standing inside the reclaimed presidential palace.
Counteroffensive Against RSF
Following a series of defeats over the past year and a half, the Sudanese army launched a counteroffensive that steadily advanced towards the capital. Al Jazeera correspondent Hiba Morgan reported that the army regained full control of Khartoum after securing the southern Jebel Awliya area, a key strategic location. The RSF fighters have reportedly been fleeing westwards towards Darfur, leaving them with „nowhere to go” and lacking the means to resupply.
RSF’s Response and Continued Conflict
Despite the army’s claims, the RSF has vowed that there will be „no retreat and no surrender,” asserting that its forces have merely repositioned. In a statement, they promised to deliver „crushing defeats to the enemy on all fronts.” In a bid to strengthen their position, the RSF announced a „military alliance” with the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North, which controls parts of South Kordofan and Blue Nile state.
The Humanitarian Crisis
The ongoing conflict has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and displaced more than 12 million people, creating what is considered the „biggest humanitarian crisis ever recorded,” according to the International Rescue Committee. The war has effectively split Sudan into two, with the army controlling the north and east, while the RSF maintains control over much of the south and nearly all of Darfur.
Future Implications
Analysts warn that while the army’s capture of Khartoum is a crucial victory, the RSF remains deeply embedded in other parts of Sudan and is attempting to establish a parallel government. The RSF grew from the notorious Janjaweed militia, accused of genocide in Darfur. Despite the army’s military advantage, it is unclear if the conflict will come to a swift resolution, as both sides seem determined to continue fighting.
Conclusion
As the situation in Sudan remains volatile, the military’s recent successes may serve to further fracture the nation or potentially push the RSF towards negotiations. However, the prospect of achieving lasting peace appears daunting amid the deepening humanitarian crisis and ongoing violence across the country.
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