Sudan’s army has recaptured the presidential palace in Khartoum, a symbolic victory against the RSF. While celebrations ensue, analysts warn of impending partition and relentless violence. Civilian support generally favors the army, despite reports of human rights abuses. The conflict is exacerbated by a looming humanitarian crisis as both parties remain unwilling to engage in peace talks.
Sudan’s army has achieved a significant victory by retaking the presidential palace in Khartoum, delivering a symbolic blow to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The recapture of the palace marks a boost for the army and its supporters, who are celebrating this important milestone since their counteroffensive against RSF began in September of the previous year.
Despite this advance, the RSF continues to maintain control over certain areas in southern Khartoum, albeit having lost a majority of the capital since the onset of civil unrest in April 2023. Just prior to the army’s success, RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan “Hemedti” Dagalo had released a video urging his fighters to hold onto the palace. Civilian sentiment generally favors the army as protectors, although there are reports of human rights abuses linked to army-associated factions following RSF retreats.
Historically, the RSF has been responsible for numerous atrocities, including the detention of a reported 10,000 individuals from Khartoum alone, as highlighted in a recent UN report. Civilians express relief at the army’s presence, equating it to greater safety and joy, particularly among children. One young Sudanese man articulated, “Whenever the army arrives, people become happy because they feel safer. Even the children are joyous.”
The army’s success raises concerns among analysts of a looming partitioning of Sudan. The RSF has formed a quasi-government and retains control over much of Darfur while facing challenges to capture el-Fasher, the capital of North Darfur. Professor Sharath Srinivasan from Cambridge University noted the unsettling parallels between Sudan’s situation and Libya, highlighting the crucial need for RSF to secure key territories for a recognized state.
While both the army and RSF have dismissed peace negotiations, they remain embroiled in military engagements that may escalate, threatening further conflict across Kordofan and Darfur regions. The recent influx of advanced weaponry could also heighten violence in Khartoum. An incident soon after the palace’s recapture involved a drone strike that claimed the lives of three journalists. The ongoing hostilities risk entrenching Sudan in a deepening humanitarian crisis, with millions facing severe food insecurity.
The retaking of the presidential palace in Khartoum by Sudan’s army signals a critical shift in the civil war landscape, providing a symbolic victory against the RSF. However, persistent violence and human rights issues continue to affect the civilian population negatively. Analysts warn of a potential partition in the country while the RSF maintains control over key territories. The situation remains dire, with both factions showing no intent for peace, heightening concerns of worsening humanitarian conditions.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
