Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemeti, the commander of Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces, accused Egypt of engaging in airstrikes against his troops near Khartoum. Hemeti’s claims were swiftly denied by Egypt, which insisted on the need for verification of such accusations. As battles continue between the RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces, the potential for foreign intervention adds a complex layer to the ongoing conflict, contributing to a humanitarian crisis affecting millions.
In a recent statement, Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) commander, Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemeti, accused Egypt of conducting airstrikes targeting his troops near Khartoum. In a recorded address to his forces, Hemeti asserted that Egyptian aircraft had “treacherously attacked and killed” RSF members in the Jebel Moya area. He criticized the protracted silence regarding Egyptian involvement in the ongoing conflict and expressed concerns that Cairo’s engagement would escalate further. However, the Egyptian foreign ministry promptly denied these allegations, urging the international community to verify Hemeti’s claims. Hemeti’s remarks are seen as indicative of a shifting power dynamic in Sudan, particularly as he fears potential foreign intervention supporting the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), which has had close affiliations with Egypt. The RSF and SAF have been in conflict since April 2023 amid intense violence in Khartoum, with the SAF reportedly gaining ground against the RSF-controlled regions throughout the city. Hemeti also suggested that Egyptian forces were providing military training and drone assistance to the SAF, alleging that U.S.-manufactured bombs were being utilized against the RSF. He further claimed the involvement of foreign mercenaries in the conflict. Additionally, Hemeti’s brother is under U.S. sanctions for allegedly assisting in arms procurement for the RSF. Clearly, the fight between the RSF and SAF has escalated further, contributing to a severe humanitarian crisis affecting millions of civilians.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan stems from a power struggle between the RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces, initially sparked by political maneuvering after the ousting of former President Omar al-Bashir. The RSF, originally formed as a counter-insurgency unit, has grown increasingly influential and has engaged directly with the military to contest control over the Sudanese government and territory. The involvement of regional allies, such as Egypt and the UAE, has further complicated the situation, as both countries have vested interests in Sudan’s stability. Reports suggest that Egypt has supported the SAF, leading to accusations of foreign intervention amidst the visceral battles for control over strategic areas such as Khartoum. This interaction among regional powers is significant, especially given the potential implications for national sovereignty and humanitarian conditions across Sudan.
The allegations set forth by RSF leader Hemeti against Egypt over airstrikes highlight the increasing tensions in the protracted conflict in Sudan. As the RSF confronts the SAF, their respective foreign support becomes an underlying theme in the conflict. The Egyptian government’s swift denial of the accusations points to the complexities of the alliances within the region, suggesting significant geopolitical stakes at play. This ongoing conflict continues to pose severe repercussions for the civilian population, marked by a dire humanitarian crisis.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
