Sudan’s army has regained the presidential palace in Khartoum, delivering a critical blow against the RSF. This victory has prompted celebrations among supporters, although the RSF maintains control in parts of southern Khartoum. Analysts express fears of a possible partition of the country, compounded by escalating violence and humanitarian crises. Both sides appear committed to continued conflict, complicating prospects for peace.
The Sudanese army has successfully reclaimed the presidential palace in Khartoum, marking a significant victory against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This event has sparked celebrations among army supporters nationwide, as the catch represents one of the army’s most important strategic gains since a counteroffensive began last September. While the RSF continues to hold certain areas within southern Khartoum, it has significantly diminished its control in the capital since the civil war erupted in April 2023.
The achievement follows a video address by RSF leader, Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, urging his fighters not to relinquish the palace. Civilian sentiment appears to favor the army, who are viewed as liberators, despite reports of human rights violations by militias associated with the army after RSF retreats. A recent United Nations report indicated that RSF forces had detained over 10,000 individuals in Khartoum since the conflict began.
Experts express concerns that the army’s recent victory could lead to a de facto partition of Sudan. The RSF maintains a parallel government and governs the majority of the Darfur region, while it has notably captured the strategic city of al-Maliha. However, they face obstacles in taking el-Fasher, the enduring army stronghold in North Darfur. Political analyst Sharath Srinivasan likened the situation to Libya, foreseeing a troubling split between competing authorities and armed factions amid the escalating conflict.
Despite calls for peace, the army has resisted engaging in negotiations with the RSF, which continues to escalate military actions under the guise of diplomacy. Analysts warn that violence may intensify not only in Darfur and Kordofan but also in Khartoum, fueled by an influx of advanced weaponry. The ongoing unrest has already resulted in an unprecedented humanitarian crisis, with tens of thousands dead, countless individuals missing, and millions facing severe food insecurity across the nation.
The recent recapture of the presidential palace in Khartoum by the Sudanese army symbolizes a crucial tactical gain in the ongoing conflict, although it raises concerns about a potential partition of Sudan. While many civilians hail the army as liberators, the RSF remains a formidable opponent, controlling significant regions especially in Darfur. As fighting continues unabated, the humanitarian situation in Sudan worsens, underscoring the urgent need for peace negotiations and international intervention.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
