Sudan’s Army Chief Declares Khartoum Free Amid Ongoing Conflict Challenges

Sudan’s army chief, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, declared Khartoum “free” from the RSF after intense conflict, but analysts warn the war continues. Despite recent military successes, humanitarian crises persist, with millions displaced. Celebrations erupted in the capital, but concerns about RSF abuses and new alliances complicate the situation.

In a momentous declaration, Sudan’s army chief, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, announced that the capital, Khartoum, is “free” from the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) after nearly two years of conflict. Burhan made this announcement during a televised broadcast following his visit to the recaptured presidential palace. “Khartoum is free, it’s done,” he affirmed, embellishing his statement with a display of military might alongside soldiers celebrating the victory.

The ongoing conflict, which erupted in April 2023 between Burhan and RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, had initially seen the RSF gain significant control in the capital, causing government officials to flee to Port Sudan. While recent military actions have inflicted considerable damage to the RSF, experts caution that the struggle is far from conclusive, especially with the RSF proclaiming a new alliance with other rebel factions.

On the operational front, the army effectively secured Khartoum’s airport from RSF forces and is reportedly encircling their last remaining outpost in the area. Despite this progress, the army faced criticism following a deadly air strike in Darfur that claimed numerous lives, with reports indicating a staggering 270 fatalities. “The remnants of the RSF militia are fleeing” across the White Nile, a military source disclosed.

The war has had devastating humanitarian impacts, resulting in tens of thousands of fatalities and displacing over 12 million people. The conflict has starkly divided the nation, with the army maintaining territories in the north and east, while the RSF controls vast areas in the west, including Darfur. Following the advent of a military alliance between the RSF and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North, the situation remains precarious.

Citizens expressed their relief and joy at the RSF’s withdrawal, engaging in public celebrations. However, there are grim reminders of the conflict, as eyewitnesses report on the RSF’s past abuses, including looting and sexual violence. The U.S. has imposed sanctions against both military leaders for alleged war crimes, reflecting international concern over the prolonged violence. The United Nations has condemned the assault on civilians, emphasizing the need for accountability as conditions in Sudan’s major cities remain dire, with growing instances of revenge attacks and humanitarian crises.

In conclusion, the declaration by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan marks a significant yet complex turning point in Sudan’s ongoing civil conflict. The apparent military victory over the RSF in Khartoum is tempered by the desperate humanitarian crisis affecting millions. The emergence of new rebel alliances poses further threats to stability. Continued vigilance and international scrutiny will be vital as the situation unfolds, highlighting the need for accountability for atrocities committed during the conflict.

Original Source: www.sanfordherald.com