Sudan’s Military Retakes Republican Palace Amid Ongoing Conflict

Sudan’s military has regained control of the Republican Palace in Khartoum, marking a significant development after nearly two years of fighting. This victory signifies the military’s advance against the RSF, though the conflict continues with humanitarian crises intensifying. Allegations of human rights abuses persist amidst ongoing warfare and displacement of civilians.

Sudan’s military declared on Friday that it has regained control of the Republican Palace in Khartoum, marking a significant development following almost two years of conflict. Soldiers were seen inside the palace, with videos capturing their announcement corresponding to the 21st day of Ramadan. The compound was reported to be partially destroyed, as soldiers celebrated their entry by chanting, “God is the greatest!”.

Khaled al-Aiser, Sudan’s information minister, confirmed the palace’s recapture on social media, stating, “Today the flag is raised, the palace is back and the journey continues until victory is complete.” This symbolic and strategic victory signifies the military’s ongoing advances against the rival paramilitary force, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), led by Gen. Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo.

The fall of the Republican Palace indicates a major loss for the RSF, which is predominantly expelled from Khartoum since the war commenced in April 2023. However, sporadic gunfire was reported throughout the capital, leading to uncertainty about its nature. The RSF has not yet acknowledged its defeat and continues to maintain control in other parts of Sudan, such as the strategic city of al-Maliha.

The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant humanitarian crises, resulting in over 28,000 reported deaths and millions displaced from their homes. Additionally, dire food shortages have forced some families to resort to extreme measures for survival. The Republican Palace’s historical significance, having served as a governing seat during British rule and after Sudan’s independence, underscores the implications of its fall between conflicting factions.

Sudan has struggled with instability since the ousting of President Omar al-Bashir in 2019, followed by a military coup that led to renewed hostilities between the military and the RSF beginning in 2023. The Sudanese military has made progress this year, retaking strategic locations and intensifying civilian casualties. Allegations of human rights abuses and genocidal actions have been leveled against the RSF, with both parties denying these claims.

While the Republican Palace has been subject to military focus, the war’s broader implications affect not only military ambitions but also the lives of countless civilians caught in the crossfire, perpetuating cycles of violence and humanitarian crises.

In summary, the Sudanese military has announced the recapture of the Republican Palace in Khartoum as a significant strategic gain amidst ongoing conflict. This development represents a crucial shift in power dynamics between the military and the RSF, despite the latter maintaining control in other territories. The humanitarian repercussions of the conflict remain severe, with thousands dead and millions displaced, underscoring the dire need for resolution and international attention.

Original Source: www.haltonhillstoday.ca