Sudan’s Military Gains Control of Central Khartoum Amid Ongoing Conflict
The New York Times reports that its team has become the first Western journalists to visit central Khartoum since the civil war began. Following a military victory at the presidential palace, Sudan’s military has gained control of crucial areas of the capital, signaling a significant change in the conflict landscape. Despite this advancement, the resolution of the war seems distant as hostilities continue.
The New York Times recently reported that its reporter and photographer became the first Western journalists to visit central Khartoum since the outbreak of civil war two years ago. Their observations highlighted the extensive devastation that has occurred in the capital. In a scene at the battle-damaged presidential palace, soldiers assembled under an ornate chandelier, preparing for their mission amidst the ruins of what was once a grand structure.
On Sunday, these soldiers commenced their operations to eliminate the remaining resistance from the paramilitary forces that have been in conflict with the military for the past two years. Following a critical military victory the previous Friday, where the presidential palace was seized after intense fighting resulting in numerous casualties, the military has gained control over significant areas of central Khartoum.
By Sunday, the Sudanese military had secured vital establishments including the Central Bank, the national intelligence service headquarters, and the Corinthia Hotel, which overlooks the Nile. This recent consolidation of power marks a turning point in the protracted civil war in Sudan.
As the first Western journalists to report from this area since the war began in April 2023, The New York Times team observed significant shifts in the conflict’s trajectory but noted that there remains little optimism for a swift resolution. Mohamed Ibrahim, a special forces officer, expressed determination against the rival paramilitary forces, stating, “We will never leave our country to the mercenaries.”
In conclusion, the situation in Sudan remains critical as the military gains ground in central Khartoum, significantly altering the course of the civil war. The capture of strategic sites by the Sudanese military reflects a pivotal shift in control, yet the deeper conflict involving the paramilitary remains unresolved. The insights gained from Western journalists’ recent visit underline both the loss sustained during the war and the ongoing volatility in the region.
Original Source: www.nytimes.com
