Sudan’s Civil War: A Possible Shift Amidst Continued Conflict and Crisis

Recent developments in Sudan indicate a potential turning point in the civil war, with Gen. Abdel Fattah al-Burhan’s forces reclaiming the presidential palace from the RSF. While the Sudanese army makes gains, the humanitarian crisis exacerbated by international neglect poses significant challenges. The situation is dire for both Sudan and South Sudan, surrounded by inadequate global assistance.

Sudan’s ongoing civil war appears to be at a crucial juncture, as recent developments indicate a shift in battlefield dynamics. Forces loyal to Gen. Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the de facto leader of Sudan, reclaimed the presidential palace in Khartoum from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) led by Gen. Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, widely known as Hemedti. Initially, the RSF had seized the palace and significant landmarks in April 2023 when their alliance with Burhan disintegrated.

Following the recovery of the presidential palace, the Sudanese army continued to make progress by regaining control of the central bank. Witnesses from Omdurman reported an increase in shelling, underscoring the ongoing conflict. The Sudanese army has gained ground partly due to the RSF’s logistical struggles and the support of Iranian and Turkish drone technology. A spokesperson for the military hailed the palace’s seizure as a significant achievement for Sudan’s sovereignty.

The civil war has created a devastating situation, with human rights organizations highlighting atrocities committed by both factions. The Biden administration, before leaving office, sanctioned Hemedti and certain RSF affiliates, deeming their actions as complicity in Sudan’s grave humanitarian crisis. Aid organizations also face challenges in delivering food aid to afflicted populations amidst a fragmented conflict landscape.

The RSF reportedly receives support from the United Arab Emirates, particularly in the gold trade, while the Sudanese military is bolstered by Egypt, Turkey, and Iran. Efforts for peace mediation have consistently failed, as ceasefires tend to collapse shortly after being established. Despite military advances, a decisive resolution to the conflict remains elusive, with the RSF maintaining control over significant areas, particularly in the west and south.

As the situation evolves in Sudan, its instability has repercussions for neighboring South Sudan, where a fragile power-sharing agreement has unraveled, exacerbating the nation’s crises. Recent violence prompted foreign governments to withdraw personnel from South Sudan amid concerns that it might relapse into civil war. A senior U.N. official indicated that the situation in South Sudan is increasingly perilous.

Despite these urgent needs, both Sudan and South Sudan have experienced international neglect, compounded by reduced U.S. foreign assistance. The United Nations’ humanitarian response for Sudan is vastly underfunded, with only a fraction of the necessary resources secured. Analysts have criticized the global community for failing to honor its commitments to aid.

The current status of Sudan’s civil war suggests that while military fortunes may be shifting in favor of the Sudanese army, a definitive resolution to the conflict appears distant. The dire humanitarian implications, coupled with international inaction and aid funding shortfalls, paint a grim picture for the affected populations within both Sudan and South Sudan. Urgent attention and increased support are crucial to alleviate the escalating humanitarian crisis stemming from this protracted conflict.

Original Source: www.washingtonpost.com