Sudan’s Civil War Ignites Fire at Largest Oil Refinery Amid Humanitarian Crisis
Sudan’s civil war has engulfed its largest oil refinery in flames, with satellite data indicating extensive damage. The conflict between military forces and the Rapid Support Force continues to escalate despite international calls for peace. Ongoing fighting has severely impacted humanitarian conditions in the country.
Recent conflict in Sudan has ignited a fire at the nation’s largest oil refinery, as evidenced by satellite data released on Saturday. This incident, occurring amidst a dire humanitarian crisis, has resulted in thick, black smoke billowing over Khartoum, the capital. The fighting, which has been ongoing, saw military forces under General Abdel al-Fattah Burhan claiming to have seized control of the refinery from the rebel Rapid Support Force (RSF).
The al-Jaili refinery, located approximately 60 kilometers north of Khartoum, has endured numerous attacks, with the RSF reportedly surrounding it with landmines since they assumed control in April 2023. Initial reports indicated that the facility, which has the capacity to process 100,000 barrels of oil daily, withstood damage until an attack on Thursday unleashed fires throughout the complex.
Satellite imagery from Planet Labs captured extensive fire damage to the refinery, showing flames rising from multiple locations early Friday. These alarming images reveal substantial destruction, as oil tanks were consumed by flames and left charred and sooty. International attempts to mediate the conflict and address the RSF’s reported conduct, including allegations of genocide, have yet to cease the hostilities that continue to wreak havoc on the country.
Sudan is currently embroiled in a civil war that has brought significant attention due to its humanitarian implications. The conflict primarily involves the Sudanese military and the Rapid Support Force (RSF), with each faction vying for control over valuable resources, including oil production facilities. This situation has escalated the already precarious humanitarian conditions facing the Sudanese population, intensifying with recent military actions that resulted in substantial environmental and economic damage.
The recent fire at Sudan’s largest oil refinery illustrates the severe impacts of ongoing civil strife, with critical infrastructure suffering extensive damage. Despite international mediation efforts, the conflict continues unabated, further contributing to the country’s widespread humanitarian crisis. Control over such facilities remains contested, emphasizing the volatile nature of the situation in Sudan and its implications for both local and global markets.
Original Source: www.scmp.com
