Sudan’s Military Regains Control of Khartoum Presidential Palace Amid Ongoing Conflict

The Sudanese military has regained control of the presidential palace in Khartoum from the paramilitary RSF, marking a notable advance in a conflict ongoing since 2023. This victory occurs amid a severe humanitarian crisis that has resulted in over 28,000 deaths and widespread displacement. Both military factions have faced allegations of human rights abuses during the fighting, with international attention focused on Sudan’s future stability.

The Sudanese military has announced the successful retaking of the Khartoum presidential palace from the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), marking a significant milestone in the ongoing conflict that has persisted for nearly two years. This seizure is part of a larger effort to regain control in a war that has greatly destabilized Sudan since its onset in 2023.

In a video posted on social media, a military officer confirmed that army troops were present at the Republican Palace, indicating that the operation took place on the 21st day of Ramadan. The images depict soldiers in a damaged palace, celebrating their victory while chanting religious slogans.

The capture of the Republican Palace, historically significant as it served as a seat of government during periods including British colonial rule and post-independence, represents a major success for General Abdel-Fattah Burhan’s military forces. This development expels the RSF, led by General Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, from Khartoum, although the RSF maintains control over other regions in Sudan.

According to reports, the ongoing conflict has resulted in over 28,000 fatalities and has led to a severe humanitarian crisis, forcing millions to displace. The fighting has led families to face extreme survival conditions, even resorting to consuming grass due to food scarcity.

The palace, a symbol of governmental authority, had previously seen significant historical events, including the raising of the first independent Sudanese flags in 1956. Its strategic recapture comes after a series of advances by Burhan’s forces, which have aggressively targeted RSF positions throughout the capital.

Sudan’s governance remains volatile since the ousting of long-standing president Omar al-Bashir in 2019, with a military coup in 2021 further complicating the country’s political landscape. As the civil conflict continues, allegations regarding human rights abuses have surfaced against both the military and RSF, though both parties deny these claims.

The international community remains watchful, particularly regarding potential war crimes, as the situation evolves. President Biden’s administration previously labeled RSF actions as genocide during the preceding administration, underscoring the urgency of the humanitarian situation abroad.

In conclusion, the Sudanese military’s successful retaking of the presidential palace in Khartoum marks a pivotal victory in the ongoing conflict against paramilitary forces. This event emphasizes the severe humanitarian crisis and the high death toll resulting from the ongoing violence. As Sudan navigates its tumultuous political landscape, international scrutiny and humanitarian efforts remain critical to addressing the consequences of this protracted war.

Original Source: www.france24.com