Sudanese army approaches control of the Presidential Palace from RSF; the conflict continues to threaten national stability and exacerbate a humanitarian crisis. Reports of intensified fighting, airstrikes, and drone attacks signify a critical juncture in the power struggle between the army and paramilitary RSF amidst ongoing allegations of war crimes.
The Sudanese army is reportedly nearing control of the Presidential Palace in Khartoum from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), according to state television. This development marks a significant shift in the ongoing conflict that began in April 2023, which threatens to further destabilize the country. Initially, the RSF seized the palace and much of the capital at the war’s onset, but the army has recently regained ground along the River Nile.
The RSF, which has attempted to establish a rival government, retains control of parts of Khartoum, Omdurman, and western Sudan. Currently, it is in conflict to seize the army’s last bastion in Darfur, specifically al-Fashir. Should the army successfully capture the capital, it may accelerate its attempt for complete control over central Sudan and entrench the territorial rift with the RSF.
Despite the ongoing conflict, both military factions are committed to fighting for supremacy across the nation, showing no signs of engaging in peace negotiations. The violence erupted from a power struggle between the army and RSF as Sudan was moving towards a civilian governance framework.
The conflict has resulted in what the UN labels as the world’s largest humanitarian crisis, exacerbating food shortages and widespread diseases. Both factions face allegations of war crimes, including genocide against the RSF, which they categorically deny.
Intensifying airstrikes and drone attacks have marked recent military operations, as the RSF employs snipers to defend its position around the palace. The army has historically possessed air superiority, but the RSF is demonstrating improved drone capabilities.
Reports indicate RSF advancements towards the Army General Command in central Khartoum, amid eyewitness accounts of southern attacks. The army’s recent progress has been welcomed by many displaced individuals, previously affected by the RSF’s alleged looting and killings. Despite these reports, the RSF claims to condemn such actions while the military denies accusations of misconduct.
The situation in Sudan remains volatile as the army inches closer to regaining control of the Presidential Palace from the RSF. This conflict, sustained by a struggle for power and governance, has led to severe humanitarian implications. As accusations of war crimes circulate, the commitment to continue fighting by both factions poses challenges for future peace efforts. The humanitarian crisis intensifies amid continued violence, drawing global attention to the dire circumstances in Sudan.
Original Source: gazette.com
