General Mohamed Dagalo of the RSF has threatened an attack on the Port of Sudan, escalating the ongoing civil war against SAF led by General al-Burhan. This situation poses a potential economic disaster for Sudan and intensifies the humanitarian crisis as millions are displaced. The conflict, which began in April 2023, continues to impact civilians and draw international scrutiny and sanctions.
The leader of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), General Mohamed Dagalo, has signaled a potential assault on the Port of Sudan, which could have dire consequences for the nation’s economy as the civil war persists. This threat comes on the heels of intense combat in Khartoum’s outskirts, where the RSF is making significant strides against the Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) led by General al-Burhan, aiming ultimately for the presidential palace.
General Dagalo proclaimed that the RSF will transform the anniversary of its establishment into a day of pain for the SAF, asserting in a social media video, “Fighting will be different and we will come from any and everywhere, and will in the end triumph over the army.” Under General al-Burhan’s leadership, military personnel have utilized the Port of Sudan as a strategic base, critical for generating substantial revenue.
On Saturday, Dagalo threatened to advance towards northern cities, including Atbara, Shendi, and Dongola, identifying the inhabitants as “criminals” who previously supported the ousted dictator Omar Al Bashir and now stand with the army against the RSF. In the initial phases of the conflict, notable advances were made by the RSF, capturing strategic locations including the presidential palace, international airport, and significant military installations.
Despite RSF’s control over much of Western Darfur and Kordofan, the Armed Forces of Sudan have managed to repel RSF forces in the vital areas surrounding the capital, Khartoum. Dagalo, who has also initiated a parallel government in Nairobi, has committed to safeguarding the presidential palace, with reports indicating that his troops are perilously close to the structure.
Analyst Osman Al Mirghani described the current strategic situation as disorganized, suggesting Dagalo appears to be in a state of desperation. The ongoing conflict has rendered millions of civilians homeless, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in Sudan, which has struggled since the fall of Omar al-Bashir following a civilian uprising in 2019.
In response to increasing crime linked to the conflict, General al-Burhan’s aide, Yasser Al Atta, urged law enforcement agencies to resume their duties rapidly. Al Mirghani mentioned that returning displaced individuals have faced further violence and lawlessness, particularly in areas like Wad Medani. The United States has imposed sanctions on both generals, citing serious human rights violations and advocating for an immediate cessation of violence amidst the bloodshed in the nation.
In summary, the RSF’s threat to attack the Port of Sudan signals an escalation of the ongoing civil war, with significant implications for the country’s economy and civilian population. General Dagalo’s vocal promises of victory and focus on military objectives highlight a stark urgency in the conflict. As humanitarian conditions worsen due to the prolonged warfare, international calls for peace remain critical amid widespread violence and human rights violations.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
