The BBC reports on the civil war in Sudan, focusing on the intense battle for Khartoum. The RSF holds much of the city, yet the Sudanese army is making significant territorial gains. Civilians face brutal violence and atrocities, prompting widespread condemnation from international observers. As the military pushes forward, the impacts of the war continue to weigh heavily on the local population.
The recent civil war in Sudan has culminated in fierce battles for the capital, Khartoum, currently controlled by the paramilitary group, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Although RSF has held the city since the war began nearly two years ago, the Sudanese army is regaining substantial control, potentially altering the course of the conflict.
Troops advancing from the south have encircled Khartoum, clearing occupied territories and complicating RSF’s position. The devastation is striking, with numerous districts exhibiting widespread destruction, leaving the city littered with damaged structures and debris. Despite some areas appearing intact, fear remains omnipresent amongst the residents.
In the Haj Yusuf district, civilians have suffered horrific acts of violence at the hands of RSF fighters. Intisar Adam Suleiman’s sons faced brutal treatment when soldiers shot at them, leading to the death of one. Despite previous efforts to engage with RSF, the violence has escalated, leaving the community traumatized.
Similar accounts of terror emerged from other residents. Asma Mubarak Abdel Karim recounted how she and other women were threatened, leading to horrifying incidents of sexual violence at the hands of retreating fighters. An RSF spokesperson has denied such reports, attributing atrocities to military forces during recapture operations.
Consequently, both the United Nations and the United States have condemned actions from both sides, particularly highlighting the RSF’s involvement in severe human rights violations, including allegations of genocide. Amid this turmoil, the RSF’s leadership has reportedly fled the area, leaving junior commanders engaged in continued skirmishes.
Efforts by the military to avoid extensive ground battles include aerial leafleting aimed at persuading RSF combatants to surrender. In areas where visible calm has resumed, the impact of the conflict remains, with residents grappling with extensive loss and damage to their homes and communities.
The ongoing civil war in Sudan has generated profound suffering and devastation, especially in Khartoum, where control is being contested between the RSF and the military. Civilians have encountered brutal violence, and both local and international observers have raised alarm over war crimes committed by both sides. Amid recovery efforts, many survivors face the arduous task of rebuilding their lives in the aftermath of chaos and destruction.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
