The Sudanese military has regained control of the presidential palace in Khartoum from the Rapid Support Forces, marking a significant step in its ongoing civil conflict. Recent advances by the SAF reflect a strategy aimed at reclaiming territory and moving towards democratic elections. The war has resulted in catastrophic humanitarian needs, with accusations of war crimes levied against both sides involved in the fighting.
On March 21, 2023, the Sudanese military succeeded in recapturing the presidential palace located in Khartoum, amidst the ongoing civil conflict with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This strategic acquisition, while symbolic, represents a crucial advancement in the military’s efforts to reclaim control over the nation. Khalid Al-Eisayir, Sudan’s information minister, expressed the significance of the event by stating, “Today, the flag has been raised, the palace has been reclaimed and the journey continues until victory is fully achieved.”
The recapture follows a series of gains made by the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) against the RSF, particularly as the latter begins to withdraw from the capital. The RSF previously occupied both the capital and the presidential palace at the war’s onset. Sudan’s military has increasingly progressed against the RSF in recent months, bolstered by an offensive that has propelled its forces closer to establishing a roadmap for democratic elections post-conflict.
The SAF and RSF have been engaged in a persistent civil war since April 15, 2023, ignited by a coup following the former government’s ousting. Tensions escalated between General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan of the SAF and his deputy, Mohammad Hamdan of the RSF, leading to widespread violence. The conflict is considered among the deadliest, with death tolls estimated at around 150,000, and over 30 million individuals requiring humanitarian assistance. Furthermore, the United Nations has identified this situation as the most severe humanitarian crisis globally, reporting 12.5 million displaced people.
The United States government has pointed fingers at the RSF and its allied militias, accusing them of genocidal acts during the conflict. Additionally, both the RSF and SAF have been implicated in war crimes, a determination corroborated by the International Criminal Court.
In summary, the recapture of the presidential palace by the Sudanese military marks a notable, albeit symbolic, achievement in the ongoing struggle against the Rapid Support Forces. This victory has occurred as the SAF makes advances within Khartoum and unfolds plans for a democratic transition. The conflict, characterized by significant loss of life and humanitarian crises, raises serious concerns regarding the actions of both warring factions. International scrutiny continues as the situation develops further.
Original Source: www.upi.com
