The Sudanese military has recaptured the presidential palace from the RSF in Khartoum, marking a symbolic victory in a civil war that has claimed many lives. The conflict, ongoing since April 2023, has resulted in widespread displacement and severe humanitarian issues, prompting international condemnation of both sides for war crimes.
On March 21, 2023, the Sudanese military succeeded in recapturing the presidential palace in Khartoum from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) amidst a prolonged civil war. Sudan’s information minister, Khalid Al-Eisayir, announced, “Today, the flag has been raised, the palace has been reclaimed and the journey continues until victory is fully achieved,” reflecting the military’s determination. The event signifies a crucial but largely symbolic win in their ongoing conflict against the RSF, which had initially taken control of the capital and the palace.
In recent months, the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) have made significant progress against the RSF as it attempts to regain control over regions of Khartoum. This recapture comes at a time when RSF troops are reportedly withdrawing from the capital, suggesting a shift in the power dynamics of the ongoing war. Just last month, buoyed by military successes, Sudan’s leadership announced a roadmap aimed at establishing democratic elections in the postwar environment.
Since the civil war erupted on April 15, 2023, after a coup led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan of the SAF and his deputy Mohammad Hamdan of the RSF, the situation in Sudan has been dire. The conflict has resulted in widespread devastation, with estimates of casualties reaching as high as 150,000. The United Nations has termed the crisis in Sudan as the “largest and most devastating displacement, humanitarian and protection crisis in the world,” affecting over 30 million people and displacing 12.5 million individuals.
Additionally, the United States has accused the RSF of committing acts that amount to genocide and has declared both sides guilty of war crimes, a conclusion echoed by the International Criminal Court. These grave violations highlight the severe humanitarian consequences of this violent struggle for power in Sudan.
The recapture of the presidential palace by Sudanese military forces represents a pivotal moment in the ongoing conflict with the RSF. While this victory is largely symbolic, it indicates a shift in the military’s fortunes amid a brutal civil war that has resulted in widespread humanitarian crises and significant loss of life. The international community continues to scrutinize the actions of both military groups, facing accusations of war crimes and genocide.
Original Source: www.upi.com
