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The recent developments in Sudan have seen the Sudanese Armed Forces successfully retaking the presidential palace and other key government buildings in downtown Khartoum. This significant victory marks a strategic blow to the rival paramilitary group, Rapid Support Forces (RSF), and brings the SAF closer to ousting the RSF from the capital after two years of conflict.
The recapture of the presidential palace by the army, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, was a moment of celebration as soldiers posted videos of their triumph. The intense battles have left the palace scarred, with shattered windows and bullet-ridden walls, showcasing the fierce fighting that took place.
The RSF fighters were ultimately encircled and cut off from their supply lines, leading to their defeat and abandonment of large amounts of weaponry. The war, which began in April 2023, has resulted in the displacement of over 12 million people, tens of thousands of lives lost, and widespread famine.
The recent reversal in Khartoum follows months of military advancements by the SAF and allied Islamist militias, reclaiming territories in the eastern part of the country and parts of the capital since February. Brigadier General Nabil Abdallah, the army spokesman, emphasized the determination to cleanse the country of the militia and its collaborators.
On the other hand, RSF commander Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, also known as Hemeti, has urged his fighters to stand their ground. The RSF still maintains control over the western region, particularly in Darfur, where they are attempting to establish a parallel administration with the support of some civilian politicians. Despite the setbacks in Khartoum, RSF fighters are expected to continue resisting army advances.
The conflict has taken a toll on Khartoum, with widespread destruction, looting, and displacement of its residents. Both sides have been accused of atrocities, and while army control of the capital could bring stability and pave the way for a new transitional government, there are concerns about potential targeting of civilians by Islamist militias aligned with the army.
As the situation in Sudan unfolds, with the SAF making significant gains in Khartoum, the future of the country remains uncertain. The impact of the conflict on the civilian population, the possibility of further violence, and the prospects for peace and stability are all key considerations moving forward.
