Understanding the Conflict in Sudan: Key Players and Dynamics

The conflict in Sudan involves two primary factions, the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), both vying for control since the ousting of President Omar Hassan al-Bashir. The army has regained some territory despite initial losses to RSF’s nimble tactics. Both factions have faced international sanctions for their roles in violence and humanitarian crises, particularly in Darfur.

The conflict in Sudan prominently involves two main factions: the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Recently, the Sudanese army achieved a key milestone by taking control of the Presidential Palace in Khartoum, intensifying hostilities between these two groups, initially united in the ousting of President Omar Hassan al-Bashir in 2019. The violent clashes have resulted in hundreds of thousands displaced and have rekindled ethnically-targeted violence in places such as Darfur.

The Sudanese Armed Forces, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, began the conflict with a significant numerical advantage, possessing more troops and advanced weaponry. Historically, the army has been a formidable entity within Sudan, having maintained a central role in the government for decades. Burhan, who has been closely connected to these military operations, has faced severe criticism for his leadership during the war, with accusations of indiscriminate attacks leading to civilian casualties.

In contrast, the RSF is commanded by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, and has developed a reputation as a formidable opponent. With an estimated 100,000 fighters, Hemedti’s forces have shown agility in combat, utilizing unconventional tactics which have garnered them various victories against the army. His background as a former camel trader and his duality in military and business ventures has bolstered the RSF’s influence within Sudan.

As the leaders of both factions have been sanctioned by the United States for their roles in the violence, there remains a stark divide with accusations of genocide against the RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces. International officials and human rights organizations condemn both entities for their roles in exacerbating the humanitarian crisis, pointing to ongoing targeted violence against civilians in conflict zones like Darfur.

The ongoing conflict in Sudan features a fierce rivalry between two factions, the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, led by Generals al-Burhan and Hemedti, respectively. Their struggle for power has resulted in severe humanitarian consequences, including mass displacements and allegations of war crimes. The complexities of this conflict underscore the challenges Sudan faces, not only in terms of military engagement but also in establishing a stable governance structure for its people.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com