Paramilitary Shelling in Khartoum Claims Lives Amid Escalating Conflict

At least five civilians were killed due to RSF shelling in eastern Khartoum, marking a severe increase in violence amidst the ongoing conflict for control of the capital. This incident occurred during evening prayers, adding to civilian casualties from previous bombardments. The Sudanese army has made territorial advances, contributing to a humanitarian crisis affecting millions.

Recent shelling by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has resulted in the deaths of at least five individuals and left numerous others injured in eastern Khartoum, according to the Emergency Lawyers network. This tragic incident occurred during evening tarawih prayers at a mosque in the East Nile district, aimed at civilians amidst the escalating conflict as the Sudanese army seeks to regain full control of the capital.

This attack marks the second instance of violence against civilians since the RSF’s significant territorial losses, including the presidential palace, following a major offensive by the Sudanese army. Just days prior, RSF artillery also struck the twin city of Omdurman, resulting in three civilian fatalities amidst what witnesses described as some of the most intense bombardments in recent months.

In a series of advancements, the Sudanese army has claimed to have taken control of the central bank’s main headquarters, eliminating many RSF personnel attempting to flee central Khartoum. Nabil Abdallah, an army spokesman, reported that the military operations are progressing, consolidating governmental power against the RSF.

As the RSF fortifies its presence in western Sudan and pursues control over additional territories, the situation has led to a de facto partition of the nation. The RSF is establishing its administration in these areas, likely to lack international validation. The ongoing conflict, which erupted in April 2023 between army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and former RSF commander Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, has produced a significant humanitarian crisis, resulting in tens of thousands of deaths and over 12 million displaced individuals.

The recent attacks in Khartoum highlight the ongoing violence and instability in Sudan, exacerbated by the power struggle between the Sudanese army and the RSF. With increasing civilian casualties and significant humanitarian concerns, it is imperative for international bodies to monitor the situation closely and provide assistance to those affected by the conflict. The situation continues to evolve as both sides vie for control in the capital, signaling a grim outlook for peace in Sudan.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com