The Sudanese army has regained control of Khartoum airport from the RSF, marking significant battlefield progress. The conflict, ongoing since April 2023, has caused extensive casualties and displacement. The army’s recent victories indicate a shift in control within the capital, although concerns over human rights violations remain prevalent.
The Sudanese army has announced the recapture of Khartoum airport from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and has reportedly surrounded them south of the capital as of Wednesday. This recent advancement follows months of conflict initiated in April 2023, with army spokesman Nabil Abdallah stating that the airport has been “fully secured” from RSF fighters who had occupied the area.
On the same day as the airport’s recapture, the army faced accusations over a lethal airstrike in Darfur that resulted in at least 270 fatalities. This event marked one of the deadliest instances of violence in the ongoing conflict. With recent military victories, including the capture of the presidential palace, the Sudanese army has made significant progress in central Khartoum against the RSF, reclaiming state institutions lost at the onset of hostilities.
Military sources indicated that army forces have strategically surrounded the Jebel Awliya area, indicated by their advancing movements from multiple directions. Reports suggest that RSF remnants are retreating across the White Nile as they attempt to escape the advancing army forces. Eyewitness accounts confirm that RSF fighters have been seen retreating southward toward Jebel Awliya, although the RSF has not responded to inquiries regarding these developments.
The ongoing conflict since April has had devastating consequences, including the death of tens of thousands and the displacement of over 12 million individuals. The war has effectively divided Sudan, with the army controlling portions of the east and north, while the RSF dominated Darfur and parts of the south. Following a period of setbacks, the army has gained momentum, edging towards solidifying its control over the capital.
According to the United Nations, millions remain trapped in the capital, facing severe food shortages and rights violations amid the chaos. Meanwhile, footage circulating on social media appears to show celebrations among civilians in central Khartoum in response to the RSF’s retreat. Several residents have noted the absence of RSF fighters in their neighborhoods, an indication of changing dynamics on the ground.
Eyewitnesses also reported that RSF members vacated previously occupied homes, sometimes taking furniture with them. Throughout the conflict, the RSF has been accused of numerous rights violations, including acts of looting and systematic sexual violence. The United States has imposed sanctions on both army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and RSF commander Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, with the latter facing accusations of genocide in Darfur. The United Nations remains deeply concerned about continuing violence against civilians and the consequences of retaliatory actions by the RSF against suspected collaborators with government forces.
The Sudanese army’s recent takeover of Khartoum airport marks a significant turning point in the ongoing conflict with the RSF, reflecting a series of military advances over recent weeks. The ramifications of this conflict continue to be troubling, as evidenced by a severe humanitarian crisis affecting millions. Continued scrutiny of human rights violations by both factions is essential amidst the ongoing violence and instability in Sudan.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
