Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, leader of Sudan’s RSF, accused Egypt of directly intervening in the Sudanese conflict by supporting the army. Amid losses at Jabal Moya due to alleged Egyptian airstrikes, he plans to mobilize one million fighters and transition to “Plan B”. He highlighted concerns over airstrikes on civilians and foreign mercenary involvement, distancing the RSF from criminal groups while condemning the actions of the Sudanese military and its allies.
In a recent statement by the leader of Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF), Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, commonly known as Hemetti, he strongly accused Egypt of directly intervening in the ongoing military conflict in Sudan by supporting the Sudanese army. Hemetti announced an escalation in their operations, stating plans to mobilize one million fighters and activate what he referred to as “Plan B.” During a video address, Hemetti revealed that RSF forces faced heavy losses during aggressive engagements at Jabal Moya, which involved intense aerial bombardments purportedly executed by Egyptian warplanes and drones. This strategically significant mountain range was recently reclaimed by the Sudanese military, a location previously under RSF control that facilitated their dominance in the Sennar region and affected logistics across other states. Hemetti lamented, “We were defeated at Jabal Moya in Sennar state by treacherous Egyptian airstrikes…” and recounted an earlier assault on unarmed RSF units during the onset of the conflict, stressing that his forces have been silent about Egypt’s actions until now. He further accused the Sudanese army of enlisting foreign mercenaries, including from Ukraine, claiming this was in response to support received by the RSF from Russian entities. Additionally, Hemetti noted the involvement of various foreign fighters, including those from Azerbaijan and Ethiopia’s Tigray region, alongside the Sudanese military operations. Moreover, Hemetti claimed that Egypt has provided military aircraft and munitions to the Sudanese armed forces, stating, “During the Geneva negotiations, Egypt provided the Sudanese army with eight warplanes and 250 kg bombs, which are U.S.-made,” illustrating a complex web of international engagement in the conflict. He expressed deep concern over ongoing airstrikes affecting civilian populations across several regions in Sudan, questioning the absence of attacks in areas where RSF forces were present and implying possible ethnic motives behind the military actions. In distancing himself from criminal elements associated with the RSF, Hemetti asserted, “We are not associated with them; we did not call for or mobilize any group… These are planted groups,” emphasizing a commitment to ethical conduct among his troops. He instructed his forces to refrain from taking videos during combat and to treat prisoners humanely. As part of his mobilization efforts, Hemetti called on soldiers on leave to return promptly to their units and prepare for renewed confrontations while prohibiting celebratory gunfire, declaring that the RSF does not receive external military assistance. Additionally, he reiterated accusations against the Islamic Movement and other political figures, asserting they orchestrated the warfare to regain control over the military and the nation. Despite the intensifying conflict with external assistance to opposing forces, Hemetti’s ultimatum to rally one million fighters highlights his determination to counter what he perceives as foreign aggression, particularly implicating Egypt’s direct involvement in the conflict.
The current military conflict in Sudan has evolved into a multifaceted struggle involving numerous local factions and foreign influence. The RSF, initially established as paramilitary forces, has become a significant player in Sudan’s power dynamics. Hemetti’s recent statements underscore the escalating tensions between the RSF and the Sudanese army amidst allegations of external interventions, particularly from Egypt, which add layers to the conflict. The strategic significance of Jabal Moya illustrates its importance in controlling supply lines and territory. The ongoing regional and international interferences complicate the already volatile situation in Sudan, leading to heightened military engagements and civilian hardships.
In conclusion, the accusations raised by RSF leader Hemetti regarding Egypt’s military involvement in Sudan represent a significant escalation in the conflict. The declaration of a plan to mobilize a million fighters signifies not only a response to external pressures but also reflects the ongoing complexities of Sudan’s internal power struggle. As foreign involvement intensifies, the humanitarian implications for civilians caught in the crossfire remain severe, necessitating further attention and response from the international community.
Original Source: sudantribune.com