Gen. Dagalo of the RSF threatens an assault on government-controlled Port Sudan, amid fierce fighting in Khartoum. He aims to target northern areas untouched by war while reports note severe civilian abuses by both military and RSF forces. The ongoing conflict has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and widespread humanitarian crises.
Mohamed Dagalo, the leader of Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF), has threatened to march on the military-backed government in Port Sudan, as well as northern cities that have remained largely untouched by the ongoing civil conflict. This threat arrives amid ongoing fierce fighting in Khartoum, where the military is slowly advancing toward key governmental sites. Gen. Dagalo proclaimed, “Monday is the anniversary of the creation of the Rapid Support Forces and we will turn it into a day of regret and grief for the army.”
Previously, Gen. Dagalo had indicated intentions to attack Port Sudan, where Army Chief Abdel Fattah Al Burhan and his staff have resided for over a year. He has now mentioned targeting northern cities including Atbara, Shindi, and Dongola, which hosted former allies of the ousted dictator Omar Al Bashir, now collaborating with the army against the RSF. The northern and eastern regions have remained relatively unscathed by the ongoing conflict, which erupted in April 2023, following intensified rivalry between Dagalo and Burhan.
Since the start of the conflict, the RSF swiftly gained ground, capturing vital locations such as Khartoum’s international airport, governmental ministries, and military installations. Nonetheless, RSF control is waning as forces have been expelled from central Khartoum, Omdurman, and Bahri. In a recent address, Gen. Dagalo promised to defend the presidential palace vigorously and urged citizens in eastern Sudan to resist military forces.
Reports indicate that RSF troops and volunteers have advanced closely to the presidential palace, capturing significant office complexes amidst celebrations by volunteer fighters. Analysts noted Dagalo’s latest address appeared disjointed and reflective of his desperation, given the war’s catastrophic impact, which has resulted in tens of thousands of fatalities and humanitarian crises affecting millions.
Witnesses in Khartoum reported severe violence against civilians, with armed volunteers committing crimes amidst a breakdown of order, particularly in locations such as Wad Medani and Omdurman. Amidst these atrocities, military leaders including Yasser Al Atta have called for immediate action from police and security to restore law and order in the capital. Civilians have recounted tragic experiences, including violent looting by armed men in military uniforms. Both the army and RSF face serious allegations of civil rights abuses, with international bodies investigating potential war crimes.
The ongoing conflict, further exacerbated by humanitarian crises, illustrates a dire need for intervention to address widespread suffering, as millions face acute hunger and instability throughout Sudan. Gen. Dagalo and Gen. Burhan are both subject to U.S. sanctions due to their roles in the conflict.
In summary, tensions escalated in Sudan as RSF leader Gen. Dagalo threatened military action against government-held Port Sudan and northern cities, amid violent clashes in Khartoum. Despite initial gains, RSF faces setbacks in territorial control. The dire humanitarian crisis continues to unfold, with severe allegations of human rights abuses being investigated internationally. Urgent intervention is required to address the profound suffering of millions in the country caught in the midst of conflict.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
