Sudan’s military has regained control of the presidential palace in Khartoum from the RSF, marking a significant advancement in the ongoing conflict. This takeover signifies the expulsion of paramilitary forces from the capital, though fighting may continue elsewhere in Sudan. The war has resulted in over 28,000 deaths and an extensive humanitarian crisis, underscoring the dire situation in the country.
The Sudanese military announced on Friday that it has regained full control of the presidential palace in Khartoum from the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), marking a significant milestone in a conflict that has lasted nearly two years. The military claimed the Republican Palace was the last stronghold of the RSF in the capital, symbolizing a critical advancement in their ongoing struggle for power.
In a video shared via social media, Sudanese military personnel were seen celebrating inside the compound, which is historically significant as it served as the center of government before the onset of war. Soldiers were observed in a deteriorated palace, chanting praises as they stood amidst debris. This moment reflects the military’s gradual successes under General Abdel-Fattah Burhan.
The takeover signifies the expulsion of the RSF, led by General Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, from Khartoum, a city that has been embroiled in conflict since violence erupted in April 2023. However, the RSF has not yet confirmed their defeat, suggesting that hostilities may continue as they maintain influence in other regions of Sudan. The United Nations has highlighted the humanitarian catastrophe stemming from this conflict, which has resulted in catastrophic losses and widespread displacement.
The Republican Palace has been a pivotal site throughout Sudan’s history, including its significance during British colonization and the 1956 independence. Its recurrent targeting by the Sudanese military underscores the intensity of the conflict as they have launched multiple assaults on the compound.
Sudan has faced instability since the ousting of longtime President Omar al-Bashir in 2019, and the military takeover in 2021 marked a regression from attempted democratic transition. The RSF and the military have been engaged in deadly confrontations this year, with reports indicating a rising civilian death toll.
Al-Bashir is currently indicted for genocide linked to his actions in Darfur during the early 2000s, an era that also saw the rise of the RSF. Both the military and RSF are subject to allegations of human rights violations amid the ongoing warfare. Prior to his departure from office, President Biden’s administration characterized the RSF’s actions as genocidal; however, both groups firmly refute these claims of misconduct.
The recent retaking of the Republican Palace by Sudan’s military signifies a pivotal moment in the ongoing conflict with the Rapid Support Forces. This development not only reflects the military’s incremental advancements but also underscores the broader humanitarian crisis in Sudan, which continues to escalate. As both forces remain engaged in violent conflict despite the loss of key territories, the situation in the country remains dire, with significant implications for the civilian population.
Original Source: www.france24.com
