KEY POINTS
- Sudanese army breaks the RSF siege of Khartoum’s General Command.
- RSF denies army gains and continues assaults in Darfur.
- Fear of Sudan’s partition grows as RSF proposes its government.
The Sudanese army celebrated a significant milestone in the nearly two-year civil war against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), declaring a turning point after breaking the siege of the General Command headquarters in Khartoum.
General Mohamed Osman al-Hussein, the army’s chief of staff, expressed confidence in the military’s ability to reclaim the rest of the country.
Speaking to reporters on Sunday, soldiers stationed at the reclaimed base voiced determination to push forward to regions like al-Geneina in Darfur, which has been heavily impacted by RSF control.
According to Reuters, civilians in the areas recaptured by the army were seen cheering and expressing relief, a sign of renewed hope amid ongoing conflict.
“We’ll move forward to cleanse every inch of our homeland,” said General al-Hussein, adding that the army’s efforts aim to restore stability, security, and peace for the millions displaced by the war.
RSF challenges army gains amid ongoing violence
Despite the army’s advancements, the RSF denied the reported gains and accused the military of escalating attacks in contested regions.
Over the weekend, a drone strike on the last operational hospital in al-Fashir, Darfur, left dozens dead. While the RSF blamed the army for the attack, analysts noted the continued tensions between the warring factions could prolong the conflict.
Control of the RSF extends through most areas of Darfur alongside Kordofan as the group pushes ahead with plans to form its government while Sudan faces concerns about partition. Sudan Army leaders refuse to allow the RSF involvement within Sudan’s political system.
Joint Forces pledge to reclaim western regions
The Joint Forces, a coalition of rebel groups allied with the army, reiterated their commitment to reclaim territories under RSF control in the west.
On behalf of the group Colonel, Mohamed Hasaballah spoke to announce their commitment to taking back control of key locations including al-Fashir, Nyala, and Geneina.
The ongoing conflict has displaced over 12 million people and pushed half the population into hunger. Analysts suggest the army may prioritize solidifying control over Khartoum before entering negotiations with the RSF, further delaying peace efforts.
Recent military achievements of the Sudanese army generate cautious optimism for the millions suffering due to the destructive war.
