The Sudanese army is close to regaining the Presidential Palace from the RSF in a long-running conflict marked by significant territorial and humanitarian crises, despite both sides denying accusations of war crimes. The RSF has established a foothold in crucial areas, including Khartoum and Darfur, while combat intensifies over control of central Sudan. Reports of progress and setbacks signal ongoing volatility in the region.
Sudan’s army is reportedly nearing control of the Presidential Palace in Khartoum from the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), according to state television. This development is a pivotal moment in the ongoing two-year conflict that threatens the country’s stability. The RSF initially seized the palace in April 2023 during the war’s outbreak, but recent months have seen the Sudanese Armed Forces progressively advance along the River Nile toward the palace.
The RSF has established control over parts of Khartoum, Omdurman, and western Sudan, where it aims to capture the army’s stronghold in Darfur, specifically al-Fashir. The potential fall of the capital could accelerate the army’s comprehensive takeover of central Sudan, further entrenching the territorial divide between the RSF and army. Both factions have pledged to continue their fight across the nation with no viable peace talks underway.
The conflict originated from a power struggle between the army and RSF just before a transition to civilian governance was set to occur. The United Nations has designated this conflict as the world’s largest humanitarian crisis, leading to widespread famine and disease. Both parties have faced allegations of war crimes, with the RSF additionally accused of genocide, claims they vehemently deny.
In recent weeks, the battle for the Presidential Palace has been intense, with the RSF employing snipers strategically placed in downtown buildings to defend their position. RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo has instructed troops to hold the palace at all costs. Reports indicate that explosions from army airstrikes and drone attacks targeted central Khartoum, underscoring the army’s aerial superiority despite the RSF enhancing their drone capabilities.
On social media, the RSF has claimed advances towards the Army General Command in Khartoum, with reports of their assaults originating from southern districts. The army’s advances have been met with approval by many displaced residents affected by the RSF’s looting and violence, despite accusations against soldiers of misconduct in Omdurman. The military denies these allegations of robbery and maintains its operational integrity.
In summary, the Sudanese army is on the verge of reclaiming the Presidential Palace from the RSF amid a prolonged conflict rooted in a struggle for power. As both forces contend for dominance, the humanitarian crisis worsens dramatically. With allegations of war crimes oscillating between each faction, stability in Sudan remains a distant goal without a ceasefire or ongoing peace negotiations. The impacts on civilian life and territorial control will continue as the conflict unfolds.
Original Source: www.cnn.com
