Fighting in Sudan has led to significant fires at the largest oil refinery due to ongoing civil war between military forces and the RSF. The refinery, crucial for national oil production, has faced increased conflict, resulting in substantial smoke over Khartoum. Recent satellite images indicate considerable damage amid a worsening humanitarian crisis.
Recent satellite data confirms that ongoing conflicts surrounding Sudan’s largest oil refinery have ignited significant fires within the complex. Thick, black smoke has billowed into the skies over Khartoum, as fighting persists amidst a deteriorating humanitarian crisis. Forces aligned with army chief Gen. Abdel al-Fattah Burhan have claimed to secure control over the refinery, facilitating their campaign against the rebel Rapid Support Force (RSF).
Located approximately 60 kilometers north of the capital, the al-Jaili refinery has been a contentious site since the fighting began in April 2023, with the RSF previously stationed at the complex. Reports indicate that the RSF fortified the area with landmines to impede military actions. Until recently, the refinery, with a daily capacity of 100,000 barrels, remained operational.
On Thursday, an assault on the facility resulted in extensive fires, as detailed by Nasa satellite analysis. Images captured on Friday exhibited flames rising from multiple locations of the refinery. The aftermath revealed significant damage, with several oil tanks burned and charred, highlighting the impact of the ongoing civil unrest on national infrastructure.
Sudan is currently engulfed in a civil war primarily between the military led by Gen. Abdel al-Fattah Burhan and the Rapid Support Force (RSF). Recent international efforts to mediate the conflict have failed to bring about a ceasefire, contributing to an escalating humanitarian situation. The al-Jaili refinery, a critical asset for the country’s oil production, has become a central point in this conflict, experiencing previous hostilities and environmental concerns due to the ongoing violence.
The situation surrounding Sudan’s largest oil refinery illustrates the severe consequences of ongoing civil war on national resources and humanitarian conditions. The claimed control by military forces highlights the strategic importance of the refinery in the broader conflict, while the environmental implications underscore the urgent need for a resolution to the fighting. International pressures continue without yielding peace, indicating a prolonged crisis ahead for Sudan.
Original Source: www.scmp.com
