The Sudanese military has regained key territory in Khartoum from the RSF, which has faced accusations of human rights violations. The conflict, ongoing since April 2023, has led to extreme humanitarian conditions with high casualties and displacement. Historical sites like the Republican Palace have been targeted in this violent power struggle post-autocracy.
Sudan’s military has claimed to have regained control of the last area in Khartoum that was held by the rival paramilitary group, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This development marks a significant expulsion of the RSF from the capital, a situation that has evolved since the onset of the war in April 2023. The RSF, led by General Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, has not confirmed this loss, indicating that hostilities may continue as they hold sway in other regions of Sudan.
The ongoing conflict has escalated into the world’s largest humanitarian crisis, resulting in over 28,000 fatalities and millions displaced from their homes. Reports indicate extreme conditions, with some families resorting to eating grass to survive amidst rising famine in certain areas. Death toll estimates vary widely, suggesting the situation is even graver than reported.
Historically, the Republican Palace represented Sudan’s political power, serving as the site for significant events during British colonization and the first raising of the independent Sudanese flags in 1956. The Sudanesemilitary has consistently targeted this compound, launching attacks in pursuit of RSF strongholds, as both factions vie for control.
Since the 2019 uprising, Sudan has faced instability following the removal of autocratic President Omar al-Bashir, with a brief democratic transition interrupted by a military coup led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and General Dagalo in 2021. The RSF and Sudan’s military have been engaged in conflict since the beginning of 2023, with military forces reclaiming strategic points such as a key refinery north of Khartoum.
Both sides—Sudan’s military and the RSF—are currently facing accusations of human rights violations throughout the conflict. Allegations note the RSF’s involvement in genocide, as previously determined by the U.S. State Department, and both parties have denied these claims. Al-Bashir himself is charged with genocide at the International Criminal Court concerning earlier ethnic conflicts in Darfur.
In summary, Sudan’s military has asserted control over Khartoum, expelling the RSF, which signals a pivotal moment in the ongoing conflict that started in April 2023. The resulting humanitarian crisis has claimed numerous lives and displaced millions. The historical significance of locations like the Republican Palace underscores the deep-rooted political struggle. Allegations of human rights abuses by both factions continue to mar the conflict, raising international concern over the situation.
Original Source: chatnewstoday.ca
