The Sudanese army is making significant gains to retake Khartoum from RSF paramilitaries, amid heavy clashes in the capital. The humanitarian crisis worsens, with widespread famine affecting over 100,000 residents. Both military factions are accused of horrific human rights violations as 12 million people remain displaced since the war began nearly two years ago. Residents face fears of reprisal violence as the conflict escalates.
The Sudanese army is reportedly advancing in its efforts to regain control of Khartoum from the RSF paramilitaries, having achieved significant territorial gains in the capital. Residents have reported heavy clashes and casualties, with a doctor noting, “Shrapnel and stray ammunition are falling on my neighbourhood.” While the RSF still retains control of much of central Khartoum, the army has regained other areas in the tripartite capital, including the crucial mint where currency is produced.
Following its recent success in the Gezira region, the army’s confidence appears bolstered, with General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan stating, “Very soon there will be no rebels in Khartoum.” However, the humanitarian situation remains dire, with over 100,000 residents in Khartoum facing famine, as UN-backed studies indicate an increasing number of people suffering due to the ongoing conflict.
Since the outbreak of war nearly two years ago between General Burhan and his rival, RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, approximately 12 million individuals have been displaced, with tens of thousands losing their lives. International aid organizations have labeled the scenario as the worst humanitarian crisis in the world, accusing both the army and the RSF of committing grave atrocities, including genocide in Darfur.
Despite these allegations, both groups deny the claims. The army has garnered support from local residents, as the RSF has faced accusations of violence, including the killing and sexual assault of civilians, in addition to looting abandoned homes. The RSF, however, dismisses reports of an army advance as “lies and rumours.”
Recent army successes are attributed to recruitment of additional fighters and acquisition of weaponry, including the reclaiming of the besieged army headquarters. Previous attempts to expel the RSF led to allegations of retaliatory violence against perceived collaborators. This history has left many civilians in Khartoum anxious about their safety as the conflict escalates.
Amir, a resident of Omdurman, expressed concern for his cousin who faces risks stemming from his perceived interactions with the RSF. Individuals are navigating the difficult landscape where survival sometimes necessitates difficult choices, and as the army approaches, they remain uncertain of what is to come.
For the time being, individuals like Mustafa and Amir can do little but wait and hope for a resolution as the conflict continues to unfold, compounding the fears of the citizens caught in the crossfire.
The ongoing civil war in Sudan has led to significant military advances by the army, seeking to reclaim Khartoum from RSF control. The humanitarian crisis persists, with widespread famine and displacement affecting millions. Both military forces face accusations of severe human rights violations, while residents contend with the risks of being caught between warring factions. As the situation remains dire, civilians continue to seek safety amidst escalating violence.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
