Sudan Army Approaches Control of Presidential Palace Amid Ongoing Conflict
Sudan’s army is close to taking control of the Presidential Palace from the RSF, marking a significant change in a prolonged conflict. The war has resulted in a humanitarian crisis, with both factions accused of war crimes. The RSF maintains strongholds in various regions, complicating aspirations for peace and stability.
According to state television, Sudan’s army is nearing control of the Presidential Palace in Khartoum from the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This development marks a critical juncture in a conflict that has persisted for two years, posing a threat to national unity. The RSF initially captured the palace and most of Khartoum during the outbreak of the war in April 2023, yet the Sudanese Armed Forces have recently made progress toward reclaiming the area along the River Nile.
The RSF continues to hold parts of Khartoum and Omdurman, as well as regions in western Sudan, where it is working to conquer the army’s final stronghold in Darfur, located in al-Fashir. If the army succeeds in taking the capital, it could expedite its complete takeover of central Sudan and further solidify the geographical division of power between the two factions. Both the military and the RSF have expressed their willingness to persist in combat for control of the country, with no substantial peace talks occurring thus far.
This conflict has resulted in what the United Nations identifies as the largest humanitarian crisis globally, triggering widespread famine and the spread of diseases across Sudan. Claims of war crimes and genocide have been directed at both sides, although both factions refute these allegations.
Recent fighting for the Presidential Palace has intensified, with the RSF fiercely defending its position, including deploying snipers in strategic downtown locations. RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo has ordered his troops to maintain their hold on the palace. Hearing explosions from airstrikes and drone assaults targeting central Khartoum highlights the ongoing intensity of the clashes, with the army generally possessing superior air power. However, the RSF has demonstrated advancements in drone capabilities as well.
The RSF asserted via the Telegram messaging platform that its forces are progressing towards the Army General Command in central Khartoum. Eyewitness accounts corroborate reports of RSF attacks originating from southern Khartoum. The army’s resurgence has been received positively by the populace, many of whom were displaced by RSF actions which have been criticized for looting and extrajudicial killings. Although the RSF denies these allegations, it states that it will ensure accountability for individual offenders.
Despite the ongoing turmoil, hundreds of thousands have begun returning to their residences in central Sudan. However, there are warnings from activists in Omdurman regarding reported instances of robbery by some soldiers, claims that the military routinely dismisses.
In summary, the Sudanese army is on the verge of gaining control over the Presidential Palace, a move that could significantly alter the power dynamics in the ongoing conflict with the RSF. As both sides persist in their struggle for supremacy, the humanitarian crisis in the nation worsens. Furthermore, allegations of war crimes remain unaddressed, highlighting the urgency for resolution and peace talks amidst escalating violence.
Original Source: gazette.com
