Sudan’s military has reclaimed control of the last area in Khartoum held by rival RSF forces, following ongoing conflict since April 2023. Despite this gain, fighting is anticipated to continue as the RSF retains control in other regions. The war has resulted in over 28,000 deaths and a humanitarian crisis, with significant allegations of human rights violations directed at both military and RSF factions, including claims of genocide by the RSF, which both sides deny.
In recent developments, Sudan’s military has regained control of the last area in Khartoum that was under the authority of rival paramilitary forces, specifically the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) led by General Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo. This marks a significant moment in the ongoing conflict, which commenced in April 2023, although the RSF has yet to acknowledge this territorial loss. Despite this setback, fighting is expected to continue as the RSF maintains strongholds elsewhere in Sudan.
The conflict has had devastating consequences, resulting in over 28,000 fatalities and displacing millions. Many families face dire circumstances, resorting to consuming grass in order to survive amidst growing famine in the region. Various estimates suggest that the actual death toll may be even higher.
Historically, the Republican Palace served as a significant power center during British rule and hosted pivotal events in Sudan’s history, including the raising of its first independent flags in 1956. The Sudanese military has consistently targeted the palace, carrying out artillery shelling and other assaults on the compound, evidenced by their ongoing operations to reclaim the area.
Sudan, located in northeastern Africa, has struggled with instability following the 2019 ousting of the long-standing president, Omar al-Bashir, due to popular protests. A brief attempt at democratic transition was interrupted by a military coup in 2021, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and General Dagalo. Since the beginning of 2023, hostilities between the military and the RSF have escalated, with Burhan’s forces reclaiming crucial territories, including a key refinery north of Khartoum.
The conflict has exacerbated civilian suffering, as both the military and the RSF have been accused of significant human rights violations. Prior to the conclusion of President Joe Biden’s term, the U.S. State Department classified the acts of the RSF as genocidal. Nevertheless, both factions deny these allegations, as the situation remains dire for those caught in the conflict.
This information is derived from the Associated Press with contributions from reporters including Samy Magdy and Jon Gambrell.
In conclusion, the retaking of the last area in Khartoum by Sudan’s military indicates a pivotal shift in the ongoing conflict with the RSF. Despite this development, the humanitarian crisis remains dire with immense loss of life and widespread displacement of civilians. Historical landmarks such as the Republican Palace have been impacted in the military’s campaign, highlighting the broader consequences of the instability following political turmoil in Sudan since 2019. Continued allegations of human rights abuses further complicate the situation, underscoring the urgent need for international attention and support.
Original Source: chatnewstoday.ca
