Sudan’s Civil War: Control Shifts as SAF Regains Khartoum

Sudan’s civil war sees a significant shift as the Sudanese Armed Forces regain control of Khartoum and key national assets from the Rapid Support Forces. General al-Burhan returns to Khartoum, announcing the city is ‘free’, indicating a potential escalation of military efforts in neighboring Darfur. This development alters the conflict landscape profoundly, with implications for stability in Sudan.

On March 15, Muhammad Hamdan Dagalo urged his troops to resist surrendering during the civil war in Sudan. However, shortly thereafter, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) lost control of critical locations including the presidential palace in Khartoum to the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF). By March 26, the SAF also regained control of the central bank and international airport. This sequence of events saw the RSF’s fighters retreating towards the west while General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the army chief and Sudan’s current leader, made his triumphant return to the capital for the first time in two years, declaring Khartoum “free”.

The shift in control marks a crucial development in Sudan’s civil conflict, as the SAF may now aim to extend its operations into Darfur, potentially escalating the violence in the region. The implications of this handover are significant, suggesting a change in momentum that could reshape the conflict’s landscape. Amidst the turmoil, General Burhan’s return and the recapture of strategic sites symbolize a new phase, though the environment remains fraught with uncertainty and potential for further conflict.

Additionally, this event coincides with broader regional dynamics, as seen in other conflicts, affecting global perceptions and alliances. The international community watches closely, anticipating the SAF’s next moves and their impact on Sudan’s stability.

The recent capture of Khartoum by the Sudanese Armed Forces signifies a turning point in Sudan’s civil war, shifting the control away from the Rapid Support Forces. With General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan back in the capital, the potential for further military operations, particularly in Darfur, raises concerns over increased violence. This transition underscores the unpredictable nature of the conflict and the ongoing struggle for power within Sudan.

Original Source: www.economist.com