Sudan’s army has recaptured the Presidential Palace in Khartoum from the RSF amid ongoing violent conflict since April 2023, which has resulted in over 28,000 deaths and significant civilian displacements. While the SAF’s control of the palace is a symbolic victory, severe humanitarian crises continue to escalate, with both factions facing accusations of war crimes and atrocities against civilians.
In a decisive move, the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) have regained control of the Presidential Palace in Khartoum from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), marking a pivotal moment in their ongoing conflict that began in April 2023. The fighting has resulted in tragic humanitarian consequences, with over 28,000 fatalities and 11 million individuals displaced. This civil strife has disrupted the lives of countless citizens, contributing to one of the world’s most dire humanitarian crises.
Since the outbreak of hostilities, the RSF has maintained a siege around the Presidential Palace and Khartoum itself, asserting their influence in various regions of Sudan. Following the recent government announcement of reclaiming the palace, troops plan to continue their offensive to fully restore control over the capital. Information Minister Khalid Al-Aiser announced the achievement, stating, “Today the flag is raised, the palace is back, and the journey continues until victory is complete.”
Despite this success, the RSF continues to control parts of Khartoum and significant areas in the western, southern, and central regions of the country, particularly Darfur, where violence is often ethnically charged. The SAF holds sway over the eastern and northern parts of Sudan. This strategic retaking of Khartoum would symbolize a crucial victory for the SAF against the RSF, which has attempted to form a competing governance structure.
Nonetheless, such military actions have dire implications for civilians who frequently find themselves in harm’s way. The United Nations Human Rights Office has reported numerous civilian casualties due to bombardments since March, raising serious concerns about the impact of the ongoing conflict on innocent lives. Seif Magango, a UN spokesperson, highlighted atrocities committed by both factions, emphasizing the dire humanitarian impact in eastern Khartoum and South Omdurman.
Historically, both the SAF and RSF have been implicated in war crimes, with the United States designating the RSF as perpetrators of genocide earlier this year. Corresponding findings from UNICEF have brought to light horrific acts perpetrated by the SAF, including sexual violence against minors. Moreover, both parties have been reported to engage in looting and the forcible detention of civilians, exacerbating the dire humanitarian situation in affected areas.
The reclaiming of the Presidential Palace by the Sudanese Armed Forces marks a significant tactical achievement amid an ongoing humanitarian crisis that has left millions vulnerable. Despite this victory, both the SAF and RSF remain entangled in accusations of severe human rights violations and war crimes, perpetuating a cycle of violence that disproportionately affects innocent civilians. The situation underscores the urgent need for international intervention and humanitarian aid as the conflict continues to escalate.
Original Source: www.wral.com
