General Burhan Returns to Khartoum as Military Recaptures Airport

Sudan’s army chief General Abdel-Fattah Burhan returned to Khartoum after the military recaptured the international airport from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Despite this significant gain, the city remains contested. Burhan’s arrival marks a symbolic victory for the military after nearly two years of conflict, yet the RSF continues to hold positions in the region. The ongoing war has resulted in extensive humanitarian crises and a high death toll, necessitating urgent aid efforts.

On Wednesday, Sudan’s military announced the recapture of Khartoum’s international airport, marking a significant development in the ongoing war. Army Chief General Abdel-Fattah Burhan returned to Khartoum for the first time in nearly two years, signaling a step towards regaining control of the city from the rival Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Video footage captured Burhan’s arrival, where he expressed triumph by stating, “Khartoum is now free. It’s over. Khartoum is free” as he greeted his troops at the airport.

While Burhan’s return symbolizes a significant military gain, the RSF is thought to still maintain control over various areas within Khartoum. The government’s declaration of full victory has yet to materialize. Since the outbreak of war in April 2023, which resulted from a power struggle between the military and RSF, Burhan and his government relocated to Port Sudan.

The recapture of the airport represents a pivotal moment; however, the conflict is far from resolved, as the RSF continues to control parts of the western Darfur region. The military’s latest win included the reclaiming of the RSF’s significant stronghold at Teiba al-Hasnab camp. Information Minister Khalid Aleiser noted on social media, “This is a pivotal and decisive moment in the history of Sudan. Khartoum is free, as it should be.”

The military’s control over the airport may enhance the delivery of humanitarian aid as the ongoing conflict has displaced approximately 14 million individuals and contributed to widespread famine. The death toll has been reported as at least 28,000, although estimates suggest the actual figures could be significantly higher.

The recapture of Khartoum’s international airport and General Abdel-Fattah Burhan’s return indicate a turning point in Sudan’s protracted conflict. Despite these developments, the presence of the RSF in the region underscores that challenges remain, particularly regarding the humanitarian crisis. The military’s advancements, while significant, do not signal the end of the conflict as territorial disputes continue in other regions of Sudan. Continued efforts from both local and international organizations will be crucial in addressing the humanitarian needs resulting from this war.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com