Sudanese Army Breaks Two-Year Siege of el-Obeid City

The Sudanese army has ended a two-year siege by the RSF on el-Obeid, a key southern city, following the RSF’s signing of a political charter for a breakaway government. The conflict has escalated since April 2023, resulting in widespread casualties and displacement. The army’s success in el-Obeid represents a strategic advantage, with potential improvements in humanitarian access for affected regions.

The Sudanese army has reportedly broken a nearly two-year siege by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on the significant city of el-Obeid, a major southern state capital. This development follows the RSF’s signing of a political charter in Nairobi aimed at establishing a breakaway government. The ongoing power struggle between the RSF and the army has resulted in extensive casualties and mass displacement since April 2023, severely impacting the nation’s stability.

El-Obeid serves as a strategic link between Khartoum and Darfur, making its control crucial for both factions. Recent army advancements have also included the retaking of various areas of Khartoum from the RSF. Following the army’s entry into the city, celebrations erupted among the Sudanese population, marking a significant military achievement. Military spokesperson Nabil Abdallah confirmed that army forces have effectively neutralized RSF units in the region.

Finance Minister Jibril Ibrahim commended the military action as a “massive step” towards alleviating the RSF’s siege on el-Fasher and enabling humanitarian assistance to reach Kordofan. Civil society activist Dallia Abdlemoniem described the recapture as “huge” and highlighted the appalling circumstances civilians faced under RSF control, with limited access to essential resources.

Ahmed Hussein, a local trader, remarked that “lifting the siege brings life back to the city,” indicating hope for revitalization. As fighting escalated near el-Fasher, international medical charity Doctors Without Borders (MSF) had to suspend operations due to safety concerns, leaving famine-stricken communities without necessary aid.

Both the Sudanese army and the RSF are facing allegations of severe human rights violations throughout the conflict, with the US imposing sanctions on their leaders. The RSF has also been accused of genocide in Darfur, claims that they firmly dispute. Controversy has arisen over Kenya’s recent hosting of the RSF, with Sudan’s Foreign Minister asserting the country’s firm stance against the recognition of a parallel government. Furthermore, Sudan’s military government warned of potential reprisals against Kenya, leading to diplomatic tensions between the two nations.

In summary, the Sudanese army has successfully lifted a two-year siege on el-Obeid, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing conflict with the RSF. This victory is anticipated to facilitate humanitarian aid and improve living conditions for the besieged population. The situation remains precarious, however, as both factions face allegations of significant human rights abuses, and geopolitical tensions with Kenya continue to unfold.

Original Source: www.bbc.com