Sudan’s ongoing civil war sees a shift in momentum as the Sudanese army regains key locations from the RSF. Gen. Burhan’s forces captured the presidential palace and the central bank, although the RSF remains entrenched in other areas. The humanitarian crisis is exacerbated by international funding neglect, which remains critical for civilian survival amid the conflict.
Recent developments indicate a shift in the ongoing civil war in Sudan. Forces loyal to Gen. Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the Sudanese army chief, regained control of Khartoum’s presidential palace from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), led by Gen. Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti. Following a collapse in their alliance in April 2023, the RSF had initially taken control of many significant parts of Khartoum but have now lost strategic positions in recent months.
Over the weekend, the Sudanese army continued to press its advantage by reclaiming the central bank, amid reports of increased shelling in Omdurman, a city adjacent to Khartoum. Burhan’s forces have gained ground partly due to the RSF’s logistical challenges and the support of Iranian and Turkish weaponry. The Sudanese military hailed the palace’s recapture as a testament to the nation’s dignity.
The civil war in Sudan is marked by atrocities from both factions, particularly in Darfur, where mass killings and sexual violence against non-Arab communities have been reported. In response, the Biden administration placed sanctions on Hemedti and RSF-linked companies. Aid groups face severe difficulties traversing a conflict-ridden landscape to deliver essential supplies to affected civilians.
The RSF reportedly receives indirect support from the UAE, which has denied allegations, while the Sudanese military has the backing of Egypt, Turkey, and Iran. Efforts for a ceasefire have repeatedly faltered, leaving both factions entrenched in their positions.
Although the Sudanese army has gained the upper hand, a conclusive victory remains elusive. The RSF continues to contest control in areas surrounding Khartoum and maintains dominance in southern and western regions, including Darfur. RSF leaders even met recently to establish a framework for a potential government in their controlled territories.
The conflict has affected neighboring South Sudan, where the power-sharing agreement has disintegrated, exacerbated by the disruption of oil exports to Sudan. As violence escalates, foreign evacuations from Juba are underway, and a UN official warned of a looming civil war in South Sudan.
Both Sudan and South Sudan suffer from international inaction, highlighted by funding shortfalls in humanitarian responses. The UN’s appeal for aid in Sudan has only garnered 6.63% of required funding. Cuts in U.S. foreign assistance under the Trump administration have severely impacted humanitarian efforts, with many organizations unable to provide necessary support. Experts underscore that the existing crises in both countries are worsened by shifting global focus towards other conflicts.
Sudan’s civil war appears to be at a critical juncture, with the Sudanese army regaining control of vital regions, yet the RSF remains a formidable force. The humanitarian crisis grows more severe due to international neglect and funding shortages. The situation is further strained by the conflict’s regional implications, particularly in South Sudan. Continued attention and aid are essential to mitigate the hardships faced by civilians in both Sudan and South Sudan.
Original Source: www.washingtonpost.com
