The Sudanese army has announced the retaking of Souq Libya in Omdurman from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a critical tactical victory in their offensive to regain control over the capital region. The conflict, now nearing two years, has led to significant humanitarian crises, with millions displaced and living in dire conditions.
The Sudanese army announced on Saturday that it has regained control over a significant market in Omdurman, a city adjacent to Khartoum, previously utilized by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) for staging attacks. This operation marks a crucial advancement in the army’s ongoing efforts to reclaim the capital region, which encompasses Khartoum, Omdurman, and Bahri, areas dissected by the River Nile.
As part of this offensive, the army successfully recaptured the presidential palace on March 21, alongside other pivotal locations, including the war-damaged airport. Army spokesperson Nabil Abdullah confirmed that the military has secured Souq Libya in Omdurman and confiscated weapons and equipment left behind by the fleeing RSF.
For an extended period, Souq Libya served as a stronghold for the RSF and a launchpoint for assaults across northern and central Omdurman since the conflict commenced on April 15, 2023. Although the army controls a significant portion of Omdurman, the RSF continues to maintain positions in western areas, notably the Ombada district.
On Thursday, the military spokesperson stated that the army has eliminated the last remnants of the RSF from Khartoum. The conflict in Sudan commenced nearly two years ago, stemming from a power struggle between the army and the RSF, which was previously an ally.
The United Nations reports that the war has displaced over 3.5 million residents from Khartoum. Many others, either unable to flee or choosing to stay, are left to navigate through abandoned structures and destroyed vehicles while the army indicates the presence of hidden mass graves. The ongoing civil strife has effectively divided Sudan, with the army exerting control in the east and north, whereas the RSF dominates much of Darfur in the west and territories in the south.
In conclusion, the Sudanese army’s recent success in reclaiming Omdurman’s Souq Libya represents a significant tactical victory in their broader campaign to secure the Khartoum region. With ongoing conflict exacerbating the humanitarian crisis, the division of control between the army and RSF highlights the complexities of Sudan’s decade-long conflict. The impact of displacement and destruction remains profound, leading to further loss and suffering for the population.
Original Source: www.france24.com
