Sudan’s civil war has led to the destruction of the largest oil refinery, with satellite data confirming extensive fires. Claims of control by military forces add to the turmoil as the humanitarian crisis worsens. Despite international mediation efforts, violence persists, marking a troubling phase in the country’s ongoing conflict.
Recent hostilities in Sudan have resulted in significant damage to the country’s largest oil refinery, situated approximately 60 kilometers north of Khartoum. Satellite data indicates that fighting in the vicinity has led to extensive fires at the facility, releasing thick, toxic smoke into the air. The refinery, a joint venture between the Sudanese government and the China National Petroleum Corporation, has been strategically important in the ongoing civil war between government forces and the rebel group, Rapid Support Forces.
Forces aligned with Sudanese military leader General Abdel al-Fattah Burhan have claimed control of the refinery. This facility, with a production capacity of 100,000 barrels per day, was said to be under the protection of the RSF since April 2023. To impede any military advances, the RSF reportedly surrounded the refinery with landmines, although satellite imagery from NASA revealed significant damage following the recent assault.
The situation in Sudan continues to deteriorate, exacerbated by a worsening humanitarian crisis and food shortages. International intervention efforts, including accusations that the RSF is committing genocide, have failed to quell the violence. The al-Jaili refinery, previously mostly intact, is now largely engulfed in flames, underscoring the conflict’s devastating impact on national infrastructure.
Sudan is currently embroiled in a civil war that has intensified between government forces and the rebel Rapid Support Forces. This conflict has severely affected the country’s infrastructure, including strategic sites such as the al-Jaili oil refinery. The refinery has been the focal point of contention due to its vital role in the country’s economy, highlighting the ramifications of the ongoing violence on Sudan’s oil production capabilities. As the humanitarian crisis deepens with famine and displacement, the international community has attempted to mediate the situation, though these efforts have yet to yield significant results.
The devastating impact of Sudan’s civil war is starkly illustrated by the recent destruction of the largest oil refinery in the country. As fighting escalates, both the humanitarian crisis and the conflict’s toll on vital infrastructure continue to worsen. Despite international attempts to mediate and accusations of genocide against the RSF, peace remains elusive, highlighting the urgent need for resolution in the region.
Original Source: www.scmp.com