The Sudanese army has lifted a nearly two-year siege of el-Obeid, imposed by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), amid ongoing violence in Sudan. The RSF recently declared a separate government in Kenya, which has been met with criticism. The situation remains dire for civilians, with severe humanitarian needs highlighted by local activists and medical organizations. Accusations of war crimes complicate both military factions’ positions.
The Sudanese army has reported successfully breaking a nearly two-year siege on the key city of el-Obeid, enforced by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This breakthrough occurred shortly after the RSF announced the formation of a separate government in Nairobi, Kenya. The conflict between the RSF and the army has resulted in significant casualties and widespread displacement since it erupted in April 2023.
El-Obeid, North Kordofan’s capital, is strategically important as it connects the capital Khartoum with the Darfur region. The recent military advances have seen the army reclaim additional areas in Khartoum from the RSF. On the streets of el-Obeid, celebrations erupted as army forces entered the city, marking a critical milestone in the ongoing conflict.
Army spokesperson Nabil Abdallah confirmed the capture, stating that RSF units were destroyed during the operation. Finance Minister Jibril Ibrahim deemed this military success a crucial step towards alleviating the RSF’s siege of el-Fasher in North Darfur and facilitating humanitarian aid to the region. Civil society activist Dallia Abdlemoniem described the recapture as significant, highlighting the dire humanitarian conditions faced by civilians.
Ahmed Hussein, a trader in el-Obeid, expressed hope for renewed life in the city due to lifting the siege, which had severely restricted access to food and medical supplies. Meanwhile, fighting around el-Fasher has forced Doctors Without Borders to pause their operations in a nearby displaced persons’ camp due to safety concerns. Both military factions have faced accusations of war crimes against civilians, with US sanctions imposed on their leaders.
The RSF’s establishment of a parallel government in Kenya has drawn criticism from human rights groups, and Sudan’s Foreign Minister Ali Youssef announced that Sudan would reject any recognition of this government. The military government has threatened retaliation against Kenya and has recalled its ambassador, while the Kenyan foreign ministry insisted their role is impartial, seeking to mediate conflict parties.
The Sudanese army’s recent military success in el-Obeid represents a significant shift in the ongoing conflict with the RSF. The end of the siege is expected to facilitate humanitarian efforts in the region. With accusations of atrocities from both sides, the need for a resolution is critical as the conflict continues to impact civilians severely.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
