Fighting between Sudan’s army and RSF intensifies near the al-Jili oil refinery. Tensions escalate in el-Fasher, with air raids following an RSF ultimatum. The conflict, ongoing since April 2023, has displaced millions. South Sudan faces unrest as a result of the crisis, with social media access suspended amid rising violence.
The Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) are currently engaged in intense fighting for control of the al-Jili oil refinery, located north of Khartoum. The army reportedly advanced toward the strategically significant refinery on Wednesday, launching a multifaceted offensive and encountering direct clashes with RSF units. Both sides are vying for dominance in this critical region as the conflict escalates.
Reports from witnesses indicate that dense smoke has engulfed large areas of Khartoum, as social media users share videos purportedly showing Sudanese army forces capturing the town’s entrance. Al Jazeera’s correspondent Hiba Morgan noted that the army has been intensifying its offensive efforts in the area, although it has not yet secured complete control of the refinery.
In addition to the fighting near Khartoum, reports of violence in el-Fasher have emerged following an ultimatum issued by the RSF for the army to vacate the city. After the deadline lapsed, military sources indicated that the army conducted airstrikes targeting RSF positions, resulting in clashes in Khartoum North with heavy weaponry involved from both sides.
The ongoing conflict, which erupted in April 2023, stems from long-standing tensions between army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan “Hemedti” Dagalo. This war has caused approximately 12 million people to be displaced, with both factions accusing each other of committing war crimes.
To date, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has reported over one million individuals fleeing to South Sudan due to the violence, including many South Sudanese who had previously sought refuge from their own civil war. Meanwhile, South Sudan’s government has responded to unrest by suspending social media access for at least 30 days.
Since April 2023, Sudan has been engulfed in conflict following escalating tensions between the military and paramilitary forces, primarily the Sudanese army and the RSF. As both groups vie for territorial control, the humanitarian toll has been significant, resulting in massive displacement and widespread violence. The conflict has deep roots in Sudan’s political instability, exacerbated by the humanitarian crisis in neighboring South Sudan.
In summary, the battle for the al-Jili oil refinery exemplifies the broader conflict in Sudan between the army and RSF, characterized by heavy warfare and increasing humanitarian concerns. As fighting continues near Khartoum and in other areas, the implications for civilians and neighboring countries remain dire, with significant displacement and unrest arising from the ongoing violence.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
