The Sudanese army has retaken Khartoum airport from the RSF, marking significant military gains amid ongoing conflict. Eyewitnesses report RSF’s retreat towards Jebel Awliya, while humanitarian crises escalate with millions displaced and rampant rights abuses noted. The situation reflects deepening turmoil as the army seeks to secure control over the capital and surrounding regions.
The Sudanese army has announced the recapture of Khartoum airport from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and has established a perimeter around the paramilitaries to the south of the capital. This military achievement comes amid ongoing conflict that has persisted since April 2023. According to army spokesman Nabil Abdallah, the airport was declared “fully secured” from RSF fighters who had occupied the facility.
This development follows a recent, devastating airstrike claimed by the army, which resulted in the deaths of at least 270 individuals in a market in western Darfur. The army has made significant strides in the last few days, including the recapture of the presidential palace and various state institutions that had fallen to the RSF during the conflict. A military source indicated that the army’s forces have effectively surrounded the strategically important Jebel Awliya area.
In Khartoum, reports from eyewitnesses indicate that RSF forces have been retreating southward towards Jebel Awliya. The RSF’s response to these developments has not been publicly communicated. Since the outbreak of war in April 2023, tens of thousands have lost their lives, over 12 million people have been displaced, and the country is now facing severe humanitarian crises.
The ongoing conflict has effectively split Sudan into two regions, with the Sudanese army controlling the northeast sector while the RSF dominates Darfur and portions of the south. After a series of defeats, the army has reversed its fortunes since late last year, moving through central Sudan towards Khartoum. This newfound momentum has enabled the army to reclaim critical areas from the RSF.
In addition to military gains, scenes of civilian celebration have emerged following the RSF’s withdrawal from central Khartoum. Footage circulating on social media depicted joyous residents as they expressed relief at the RSF’s retreat. Eyewitnesses have noted that the RSF fighters abandoned civilian homes, with some reportedly removing personal belongings.
The humanitarian situation remains dire, with more than 3.5 million people fleeing the beleaguered capital. Numerous inhabitants remain trapped, enduring food shortages and ongoing violence. Rights abuses attributed to the RSF, including looting and harassment, have been documented by various organizations. Furthermore, the U.S. has imposed sanctions on key military figures involved in the conflict due to allegations of genocide in Darfur, while the United Nations has called for urgent action against assaults on civilians.
In summary, the Sudanese army’s recent recapture of Khartoum airport signifies a critical development in the ongoing conflict against the RSF. This reflects the army’s growing momentum following substantial battlefield successes, including the regaining of significant state facilities and the strategic Jebel Awliya area. Despite these advancements, the humanitarian crisis in Sudan remains severe, with millions affected and disturbing reports of rights abuses by both conflicting parties, emphasizing the urgent need for resolution and assistance.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
