Amid intense fighting in Khartoum, Sudanese civilians face dire consequences as the army battles the RSF. Many view the army as a liberator; however, activists report increasing brutality from both sides, intensifying the humanitarian crisis. The ongoing conflict has displaced millions and led to severe violence against ethnic minorities, amid widespread looting and fear of reprisals.
The ongoing conflict in Khartoum has left Sudanese civilians suffering significantly as the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) push to defeat the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). While many residents view the army as a liberating force, activists report an alarming escalation in violence and brutality from both sides, further worsening the humanitarian crisis.
On February 1st, RSF forces launched artillery strikes in a crowded market in Omdurman, resulting in the deaths of at least 56 individuals. Subsequently, additional reports emerged of the RSF detaining local relief workers and a hospital manager in a marginalized area of Khartoum, highlighting the dire state of the humanitarian response.
As the army fights for control in central Khartoum, they face stronger resistance from RSF forces. In response, the army has imposed partial sieges on key districts, limiting civilian movement and access to resources. “Right now, the city is besieged… Many families have been killed trying to get out this way,” noted a local activist.
The ongoing conflict, which started in April 2023, has led to what is described as the largest humanitarian crisis globally, with tens of thousands dead and millions displaced. While some displaced individuals are returning to Omdurman, many remain homeless due to destruction of their properties by RSF forces.
A complex atmosphere of fear exists, as civilians from ethnic minorities worry about reprisals from the army and allied fighters. Reports indicate targeted violence against individuals from western and southern Sudan, further exacerbating their sense of vulnerability amid the chaos. Activists have emphasized that this fear is palpable among those who feel unjustly displaced from Khartoum.
Incidents of violence reportedly include targeted killings of ethnic minorities during army operations, with the United Nations documenting extrajudicial killings attributed to army-backed groups. Army spokesperson Nabil Abdullah has denied these allegations, asserting that the SAF adheres to the law and international protocols.
Recent weeks have seen RSF fighters looting markets and private residences, stealing valuables ahead of their retreat from army advances. A local relief worker described how RSF combatants intruded into his home, assaulting men and stealing electronics. Fear of being targeted continues to push civilians to evade the RSF, even prioritizing their safety over the visibility of the army.
In summary, the tumultuous situation in Khartoum reflects a deepening humanitarian crisis driven by the brutal conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces. While some civilians view the army’s advance as a form of liberation, widespread violence, displacement, and fear have left many feeling unsafe and vulnerable. With severe instances of violence reported and accusations against both factions, the plight of Sudanese civilians remains precarious amid the ongoing turmoil.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
