Sudanese Army Regains Control of Presidential Palace from RSF

The Sudanese army recaptured the presidential palace in Khartoum from RSF, marking a significant setback for paramilitaries. The RSF retaliated with drone strikes that killed journalists and army personnel. This development reflects a shift in the ongoing conflict, even as the humanitarian crisis worsens in the country.

On Friday, the Sudanese army successfully recaptured the presidential palace in Khartoum from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), marking a significant setback for the paramilitary group, which retaliated with deadly drone strikes. State television broadcast scenes of celebratory fighters within the palace before three journalists were tragically killed in a drone attack while covering the events. An army source disclosed that the RSF had launched a drone strike against the palace, resulting in casualties among army personnel.

In a statement via Telegram, the RSF declared that it had executed a “lightning operation” near the palace, claiming the deaths of over 89 personnel and the destruction of various military vehicles amidst ongoing conflict. Witnesses reported numerous drones in the area where soldiers had gathered to celebrate their regained control of the palace. Videos showed young volunteer fighters alongside the army celebrating in the palace despite the damaged environment.

The ongoing power struggle between Sudan’s rival military factions intensified on April 15, 2023, leaving tens of thousands dead and displacing more than 12 million individuals. Following a series of defeats, the army turned the tide by launching a counteroffensive in Al-Jazira state, which included securing the presidential palace—an act described as a significant blow to the RSF. One military expert noted that the retaking of the palace implied a loss of elite RSF fighters and control over a critical supply center.

Despite the army’s advances, RSF fighters remain active throughout the city, hiding in structures and maintaining artillery attacks on army-held zones. RSF commander Mohamed Hamdan Daglo vowed to persist in resisting the army’s counteroffensive, while the military seeks to eliminate remaining RSF holdouts. Army spokesman Nabil Abdallah asserted that operations will continue until total victory is achieved across the nation. Nevertheless, significant portions of Darfur and southern Sudan remain under RSF control, as millions of Sudanese face famine and food insecurity issues.

The successful recapture of the presidential palace by the Sudanese army constitutes a pivotal moment in the ongoing conflict with the Rapid Support Forces. While this victory indicates a shift in military momentum in favor of the army, RSF forces continue to pose a threat from various locations. The humanitarian crisis remains dire, warranting urgent attention as the conflict persists across multiple regions of Sudan.

Original Source: www.nbcrightnow.com