Sudanese Army Recaptures Khartoum Airport Amid Ongoing Conflict

The Sudanese army has retaken Khartoum airport from the RSF, marking a pivotal moment in their ongoing conflict. The army has gained ground in central Khartoum while the RSF is retreating southward. The war has resulted in significant civilian casualties and displacement, prompting international concern over human rights violations by both sides.

The Sudanese army has successfully recaptured Khartoum airport from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and has strategically surrounded them to the south of the capital. According to army spokesman Nabil Abdallah, following intense clashes since April 2023, the airport is now fully secured. This military achievement comes shortly after the army was implicated in a devastating airstrike that resulted in significant civilian casualties in western Darfur.

In a significant gain following the recapture of the presidential palace, the army is advancing through central Khartoum, reclaiming state facilities previously taken by the RSF. A military source indicated that the forces are enclosing the key area of Jebel Awliya from multiple directions, impeding the RSF’s retreat across the White Nile. Eyewitnesses noted a visible retreat of RSF fighters towards Jebel Awliya.

The ongoing conflict, erupting in April 2023, has led to catastrophic human costs, with tens of thousands dead and over 12 million people displaced. The precarious situation has bifurcated the nation, leaving the army in control of the north and east, while the RSF governs much of Darfur and parts of the south. Following a series of defeats, the army has regained momentum, advancing toward the capital, Khartoum.

Reports indicate that the RSF had recently held positions in Jebel Awliya and its surrounding areas, while the army has made significant progress. After sustaining losses, the army appears closer to securing the capital, from which the government had fled early in the conflict. The UN reported over 3.5 million people have been displaced from Khartoum, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.

As the situation evolves, social media footage has surfaced showcasing civilian celebrations in central Khartoum, marking the RSF’s withdrawal. Residents have reported that RSF fighters left behind occupied homes in a hurried retreat, with instances of looting and alleged rights abuses documented against the RSF by humanitarian organizations.

The international community, including the United States, has imposed sanctions on the leaders of both the army and RSF. The UN has condemned continuous civilian attacks, highlighting the urgent need for accountability and protection of civilians caught in the crossfire of this devastating conflict.

In summary, the Sudanese army has made significant territorial gains by regaining control of Khartoum airport and surrounding RSF forces. The conflict continues to devastate the country, resulting in extensive civilian casualties and displacement. The apparent retreat of the RSF has been met with local celebrations, but serious concerns remain regarding human rights violations by both factions. The situation demands urgent attention from the international community to address the humanitarian crisis and ensure the protection of civilians.

Original Source: www.rfi.fr