Sudanese Military Strengthens Control in Khartoum After Key Victories
The Sudanese military has retaken the Republican Palace and key government buildings in Khartoum from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), marking a significant victory in their ongoing conflict. Military spokesperson Brig. Gen. Nabil Abdullah reported the expulsion of RSF forces and recent fatalities among their ranks. The conflict has resulted in substantial civilian casualties and human rights violations, prompting urgent humanitarian concerns.
The Sudanese military has strengthened its authority in Khartoum, successfully reclaiming significant government buildings following its takeover of the Republican Palace. Brig. Gen. Nabil Abdullah, a spokesperson for the military, confirmed the expulsion of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) from strategic locations, which included the National Intelligence Service headquarters and the Corinthia Hotel. Furthermore, they regained control over the Central Bank of Sudan and various educational institutions in the vicinity.
Following the military’s retaking of the Republican Palace, a key government site prior to the conflict, authorities reported the deaths of hundreds of RSF fighters during their retreat. The RSF has not provided any immediate response regarding these developments. This recent victory marks a substantial milestone for the Sudanese public forces in their prolonged struggle against the RSF, ongoing since April 2023.
The military’s operations have not been without tragedy; a drone strike, attributed to the RSF, resulted in the deaths of two journalists and a Sudanese state television driver at the Republican Palace. Additionally, military personnel, including Lt. Col. Hassan Ibrahim, lost their lives in this assault. At the onset of the war, the RSF seized numerous government facilities, including the Republican Palace and military headquarters, utilizing private residences as bases for their attacks.
In recent months, military forces have gained momentum in the conflict, reclaiming key areas in Khartoum and its neighboring cities. Progress achieved in late January allowed troops to lift the RSF siege on the General Command, facilitating their advances, including the recovery of the Republican Palace.
Looking ahead, the military aims to capture the Khartoum International Airport, which has been under RSF control since the outbreak of hostilities. Recent social media footage purportedly reveals soldiers advancing towards the airport’s location. The ongoing war has devastated the capital and other urban areas, resulting in over 28,000 fatalities and widespread displacement, with millions forced to abandon their homes amid growing famine concerns.
The conflict has been characterized by severe human rights violations, including mass rape and ethnic killings, leading organizations such as the United Nations and human rights advocates to classify these actions as war crimes against humanity, particularly evident in the Darfur region.
In conclusion, the Sudanese military’s recent reclaiming of the Republican Palace and strategic government buildings highlights its ongoing efforts to consolidate power in Khartoum. Despite achieving significant victories, the war continues to inflict a heavy toll on the civilian population. The humanitarian crisis escalates as the conflict results in mass casualties and atrocities, emphasizing the urgent need for international attention and intervention.
Original Source: apnews.com
