Sudanese Army Chief Asserts Military Action Continues Until RSF Disarms
Sudanese army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan declared that military operations will persist until the paramilitary RSF surrenders its weapons. He ruled out negotiations and committed to pursuing RSF fighters relentlessly. Recent military victories for the army include reclaiming the presidential palace. The war has significantly devastated the country, dividing it effectively into two regions with high casualties and displacement rates.
On Saturday, Sudanese army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan reaffirmed his commitment to continue military operations until the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) relinquish their weapons. In his first televised address since the army’s recent victory in recapturing the capital, Khartoum, Burhan emphasized the possibility of ending the nearly two-year conflict, conditional on the RSF’s disarmament.
Burhan emphatically dismissed the prospect of negotiations with the RSF, stating that his forces would pursue the remaining RSF fighters with relentless determination. He declared, “We will neither forgive, nor compromise, nor negotiate,” indicating that a complete resolution would only be achieved when every RSF member is eliminated from Sudan.
His speech followed a significant military achievement as he entered the presidential palace, which had been under RSF control since the outbreak of war nearly two years ago. Burhan’s triumphant moment was marked by his kneeling down to kiss the ground upon his arrival and raising his fist in defiance.
After enduring substantial losses for 18 months, the army initiated a vigorous counteroffensive in November that successfully advanced towards the capital, retaking crucial sites including the presidential palace and the airport. The RSF, though under pressure, maintains a firm opposition to surrender, having recently formed a military alliance with a faction of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North.
As conflict escalates, reports emerged that the RSF targeted the airport and Roseires Dam in Blue Nile, confirming their continued aggression. The army countered these aerial assaults by announcing the interception of RSF drones. Furthermore, the RSF claimed responsibility for seizing a military base southwest of Damazin. The ongoing war has wreaked havoc across Sudan, resulting in tens of thousands of casualties and displacing over 12 million individuals, thereby bifurcating the nation with the army controlling the north and east, while the RSF governs much of Darfur and southern regions.
The speech by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan highlights the ongoing tensions between the Sudanese army and the RSF, emphasizing a commitment to military engagement until the RSF disarms completely. The situation remains fluid as both sides continue to engage militarily, with the conflict having dire humanitarian implications, further deepening the division within Sudan. The international community must closely monitor these developments as the humanitarian crisis escalates.
Original Source: www.france24.com
