Sudan’s military has retaken key locations in central Khartoum from paramilitary control, including the presidential palace. While army advances are notable, the country remains divided, with ongoing violence affecting civilians in regions like North Darfur. Experts caution that military gains do not signal an end to hostilities, as significant humanitarian crises persist.
On Saturday, Sudan’s military announced its recapture of several strategic locations in central Khartoum, including the presidential palace, which was previously held by paramilitary forces. Army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan asserted a commitment to “full liberation” of the area. As reported by army spokesman Nabil Abdallah, key facilities now under military control include the Central Bank and state intelligence headquarters, as the army intensifies its operations against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in the city center.
Despite these developments, Sudan continues to experience territorial division, with the army controlling the eastern and northern regions, while RSF dominates western Darfur and parts of the south. Concurrently, reports have emerged of violent attacks in North Darfur, resulting in numerous civilian fatalities, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis that has unfolded since the conflict began in April 2023.
The initial weeks of fighting led to the looting and takeover of national institutions in Khartoum. An RSF representative acknowledged setbacks, confirming withdrawals from certain central Khartoum locations but also emphasizing ongoing battles, particularly near a damaged airport. Notably, a counter-offensive by the army resulted in recapturing significant territories, including the entire southern side of the Blue Nile.
On Friday, the military regained control of the presidential palace, which the RSF had used to station elite troops and stockpile arms. This strategic turning point prompted a retaliatory drone strike by the RSF, resulting in casualties among both media personnel and army troops. Amidst the chaos, the army recently claimed significant victories against RSF personnel located in prominent districts of Khartoum.
While military advances may solidify the army’s grip on the capital, experts warn that this does not guarantee a conclusion to ongoing hostilities. The ongoing war has already resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and displaced over 12 million people. In response to army successes, the RSF is reportedly reinforcing its presence in Darfur, where it faced attacks on its supply routes, echoing the ongoing strife across the nation.
Sudan’s military forces have made significant gains in central Khartoum, retaking key structures and pushing back the RSF. However, despite these advancements, the conflict remains unresolved, with territorial divisions persisting and violence continuing in other regions such as North Darfur. Experts emphasize that military victory in Khartoum does not equate to an end to the war, which has led to massive humanitarian crises and displacements.
Original Source: www.kulr8.com
