Sudan’s army is reportedly close to seizing the Presidential Palace in Khartoum from the RSF. Heavy fighting has escalated, representing a significant shift in the ongoing conflict that began in 2021. The conflict has led to a major humanitarian crisis, with both sides accused of human rights abuses.
Sudan’s state television reported on Thursday that the army is nearing control of the Presidential Palace in Khartoum, currently held by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This development marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing two-year conflict that poses a risk of further destabilizing the nation.
On Wednesday evening, intense clashes erupted near the palace, accompanied by explosions and airstrikes from the army targeting central Khartoum, as indicated by witnesses and military sources.
Throughout nearly two years of conflict, the RSF has maintained dominance in western Sudan and parts of Khartoum. However, the RSF has been progressively ceding territory in central regions to the national army.
The two military factions, which executed a coup in 2021, disrupted a transition to civilian governance. Armed conflict reignited in April 2023 after disagreements over a new transition plan escalated violently.
This conflict has resulted in what the United Nations describes as the world’s largest humanitarian crisis, with both the RSF and army facing allegations of extensive human rights violations.
In conclusion, the ongoing struggle between the Sudanese army and the RSF is reaching a critical juncture, as the army approaches control of the Presidential Palace. This conflict, born out of a failed transition to civilian rule, is contributing to a severe humanitarian crisis and widespread human rights abuses perpetrated by both factions. The situation remains fluid and poses significant risks for the country’s stability.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
