Sudan’s Military Gains Ground Against RSF Amid Ongoing Conflict

Sudan’s army is making significant advances against the RSF, regaining control of key areas around Khartoum. Despite facing stiff resistance, they aim to reclaim the capital, though this may increase civilian casualties. The ongoing conflict reflects deep-rooted power struggles and has led to a severe humanitarian crisis in the country.

Sudan’s military and allied militias are advancing against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), reclaiming territory on the outskirts of Khartoum. Recent reports indicate that the RSF is losing ground, with numerous fighters seen fleeing in vehicles. The army has gained control of Bahri and Omdurman, vital areas in the capital’s greater region.

Significant progress has been made since the army recently expelled RSF forces from Al Gezira state. However, their advance toward Khartoum has been hindered by heavy gunfire from RSF fighters defending a critical bridge known as Soba, located 25 kilometers from the city’s center. Witness accounts reveal hundreds of RSF fighters and their families retreating towards Darfur with supplies.

Securing control over Khartoum could reverse early war losses for the army but risks increasing civilian casualties. Analyst Osman Al Mirghani noted that such an outcome could mark a major victory for the armed forces, potentially restoring governance for displaced millions who fled due to conflict.

While the army makes gains, the RSF still maintains control over strategic sites like the international airport and presidential palace in Khartoum. The task of recapturing these areas is further complicated by RSF snipers positioned on rooftops throughout the city. Military analyst Osman Hemeida highlighted the army’s focus on key targets, including the central bank and intelligence agency.

Intense fighting is underway in areas such as Sharq El Neel, where the army repelled a significant RSF counter-offensive. Army chief Gen Abdel Fattah Al Burhan vowed to continue efforts to defeat the RSF, emphasizing the strategic importance of central Khartoum. The RSF retains control over most of Darfur, a region beset by decades of violence and humanitarian crises.

The ongoing conflict began in April 2023 due to a power struggle between Gen Al Burhan and RSF commander Mohamed Dagalo. This war has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths, displacing over 12 million people, and has triggered a severe humanitarian crisis affecting over half of Sudan’s population, many facing acute hunger. Both generals claim to fight for the welfare of the Sudanese people but face accusations of war crimes from international bodies.

The conflict in Sudan began in April 2023, rooted in a power struggle between military leaders Gen Abdel Fattah Al Burhan and RSF commander Mohamed Dagalo. Following their fallout, intense violence erupted, leading to significant humanitarian crises, with millions displaced and widespread famine reported. The current military clash focuses heavily on regaining control of strategic urban centers, primarily Khartoum, amidst allegations of war crimes against both factions involved in the conflict.

The Sudanese military advance against the RSF marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing conflict, with potential implications for power dynamics in the capital. As the army seeks to regain control of key areas, the civilian toll remains a grave concern, highlighting the complex interplay between military objectives and humanitarian needs. The war’s extensive impact on the population raises critical questions about future governance and stability in Sudan.

Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com