Sudan’s RSF regained control of the Al-Zurug base in North Darfur from Joint Forces allied with the army, amid ongoing conflict and rising civilian casualties. The RSF accused the Joint Forces of ethnic cleansing while the Joint Forces countered that the RSF used the base for attacks against civilians. This situation exacerbates ethnic tensions and highlights the dire humanitarian crisis in the region.
In a significant development in the ongoing conflict in Sudan, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) announced that they have successfully regained control of a critical logistical base, the Al-Zurug base in North Darfur, from the Joint Forces allied with Sudan’s army. This shift occurred approximately one day after the Joint Forces declared that they had captured the base, which has been pivotal for the RSF in maintaining their operations in the region. The RSF’s return to control underscores the intense ongoing conflict which has escalated since April 2023, particularly in North Darfur, as various factions engage in fierce confrontations to establish dominance in the area.
The struggle between the RSF and the army, supported by former rebel groups, has resulted in a tragic humanitarian crisis marked by severe violence and civilian casualties. Reports indicate that since mid-April, at least 782 civilians have lost their lives due to the escalating warfare, which has involved both airstrikes and artillery bombardments. The RSF has accused the Joint Forces of committing acts of violence against civilians during the initial capture of the Al-Zurug base, asserting that such actions constitute ethnic cleansing.
Analysts emphasize that the control of the Al-Zurug base plays a crucial role in the RSF’s broader strategy to create a parallel governance structure to the national government, which primarily operates from Port Sudan. Furthermore, the renewed fighting may exacerbate existing ethnic tensions between the RSF, predominantly composed of Arab tribes, and the Zaghawa tribe prevalent among the Joint Forces. The situation in North Darfur and its implications for civilian safety remain dire, with ongoing missile attacks further contributing to the humanitarian distress reported by local activists.
This recent resurgence of hostilities signifies a continuation of the conflict’s brutal nature, underscoring the urgent need for international interventions and resolutions to foster peace and stability in the region.
The violent clashes in Sudan, particularly in the Darfur region, have been fueled by a power struggle between the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the national army since April 2023. The RSF, a paramilitary organization with roots in the militias that fought in the Darfur conflict, has been battling the army along with Joint Forces composed of various former rebel factions. The ongoing conflict has led to significant civilian casualties, rising ethnic tensions, and a humanitarian crisis, prompting international concern and calls for intervention.
The RSF’s recent control of the Al-Zurug base highlights the ongoing volatility in North Darfur as fighting between rival factions continues unabated. The situation remains critical, with considerable loss of civilian lives and potential escalation into broader ethnic conflicts. This conflict illustrates the complicated dynamics at play in Sudan’s quest for stability, necessitating immediate attention and action from the global community.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
