Sudan’s army has regained control of the presidential palace in Khartoum after two years of RSF occupation. This event marks a crucial step in the ongoing conflict, but RSF remains active and poses ongoing threats. The conflict has led to significant humanitarian crises, including displacement and food insecurity.
Sudan’s military has regained full control of the presidential palace in Khartoum, two years after it was taken over by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This milestone was announced on a recent Friday following the army’s closure in on the palace, located by the Blue Nile. Information Minister Khaled al-Aiser proclaimed on social media that “the palace is back and the journey continues until victory is complete.”
The RSF initially captured the palace complex, which includes buildings from both the 1825 Ottoman-Egyptian era and a larger structure constructed in 2015, during their conflict with Sudan’s army that began in April 2023. This takeover forced the government led by army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan to relocate to Port Sudan on the Red Sea. Both palace buildings suffered damage amid the fighting two years ago, especially the older structure, known for its historical significance.
Recently, the army also reported seizing control of additional ministries and key buildings in central Khartoum. However, the conflict continues, evidenced by an RSF drone strike that reportedly killed three journalists near the palace shortly after the army’s recapture. The RSF maintains its presence nearby, indicating that fighting is ongoing.
While the army has made significant territorial gains in central Sudan, the RSF has solidified its control over the western Darfur region, facing allegations of genocide against non-Arab groups by various organizations, including the United States. The RSF has also been sanctioned, along with Burhan, amid concerns that the conflict could lead to a fragmented state akin to Libya’s situation.
The ongoing conflict has resulted in the displacement of over 10 million people, left more than 12 million facing acute food shortages, and claimed thousands of lives.
The Sudanese military’s recent recapture of the presidential palace marks a significant development in the ongoing conflict with the RSF, which has drastically influenced the political landscape. While the military asserts its authority over central Khartoum, the RSF’s assertion to continue its operations raises concerns about further violence and instability. With millions displaced and high levels of food insecurity, the situation remains critical. The potential for Sudan’s division into separate entities is a looming threat as violence persists.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
