The Sudanese army is close to reclaiming the Presidential Palace from the RSF in Khartoum after months of conflict. This potential takeover could shift power dynamics in central Sudan while the humanitarian crisis worsens. Despite ongoing hostilities, both sides remain steadfast in their commitment to control the nation, complicating peace efforts as violence continues unabated.
The Sudanese army is reportedly nearing control of the Presidential Palace in Khartoum, as reported by state television. This development represents a significant step in the ongoing two-year conflict with the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which initially seized the palace following the war’s outbreak in April 2023. Recent military advances by the army have facilitated their approach towards the palace along the banks of the River Nile.
The RSF maintains authority over parts of Khartoum, Omdurman, and regions in western Sudan, where it continues to contest for the Sudanese army’s last stronghold in Darfur, specifically Al-Fashir. The potential acquisition of the capital by the army could accelerate its authority over central Sudan and solidify territorial divisions with the RSF. Despite aspirations for a peaceful resolution, both parties remain committed to the fight for dominance in the region.
The United Nations has described the ongoing turmoil as the world’s largest humanitarian crisis, leading to widespread famine and disease. Both combatant groups face accusations of war crimes, with the RSF particularly charged with genocide, claims which they categorically deny.
Battles for the Presidential Palace have escalated, with RSF forces fiercely defending their position amid airstrikes by the army. The army has leveraged air power successfully against the RSF, which, however, is showing improved drone capabilities. Reports from the RSF indicate continued advances towards the Army General Command in central Khartoum, suggesting a protracted confrontation.
The army’s recent territorial gains have been positively received by those displaced by the RSF’s campaign of looting and violence. Some residents are cautiously returning home amidst ongoing concerns of soldier misconduct and robbery, which the military has consistently refuted. Yet, the complex and fragile situation remains tenuous as violence continues to impact civilian life in Sudan.
The situation in Sudan remains critical, as the army edges closer to seizing control of the Presidential Palace from the RSF amid a two-year conflict that has devastated the nation. With both forces committed to continuing their battle, efforts for peace appear elusive. The humanitarian crisis exacerbated by this conflict underscores the urgent need for international attention and intervention to alleviate the suffering of civilians caught in the crossfire.
Original Source: www.cnn.com
