Understanding the Current Conflict in Sudan: A Focus on Key Players

The conflict in Sudan features ongoing clashes between the Sudanese army led by General Burhan and the paramilitary RSF under General Hemedti. The army recently seized control of the Presidential Palace, while both factions have a history of ethnic violence and significant humanitarian issues. Sanctions have been imposed on both leaders for their roles in the conflict, highlighting the urgent need for resolution.

In Sudan, the prolonged conflict involves the Sudanese army, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), commanded by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti. The army recently asserted its control over the Presidential Palace in Khartoum amidst ongoing clashes stemming from past partnerships in overthrowing President Omar Hassan al-Bashir in 2019 and a civilian-led government in 2021. This rivalry has intensified amidst a political transition in the country, exacerbating ethnic violence and human displacement.

The Sudanese army possesses significant military advantages, including a greater number of troops, heavy weaponry, and air support. General Burhan’s career has been entrenched within the military landscape of Sudan, maintaining power for decades. Despite previous setbacks against the RSF’s agile fighters, the army has regained some territory, receiving assistance from allies and utilizing Iranian-made drones, controlling northern and eastern regions, including Port Sudan.

However, the Sudanese army faces serious accusations of civilian casualties resulting from indiscriminate attacks. These allegations have led to sanctions from the United States, citing Burhan’s methods of governance as contributing to widespread violence and humanitarian crises. Conversely, the RSF, with its estimated strength of 100,000, has emerged as a formidable opponent, capitalizing on its historical militia roots.

Hemedti’s rise to power originated from his beginnings as a camel trader in Darfur, subsequently harnessing significant military prowess during the Darfur conflict. The RSF gained recognition as an official military entity in 2017, which facilitated Hemedti’s expansion in various economic sectors, including gold mining. Accusations against the RSF involve severe human rights violations in Darfur, a claim the group denies, while they continue to leverage support from international allies, notably the United Arab Emirates.

The ongoing conflict showcases the complexities of power struggles in Sudan, revealing deep-rooted issues of governance, ethnic tensions, and humanitarian crises, thereby necessitating urgent international attention and intervention for resolution.

The conflict in Sudan between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces is marked by a struggle for power amidst a backdrop of historical grievances and ethnic strife. The army, under General Burhan, and the RSF, led by General Hemedti, exemplify the changing dynamics of military influence and the impact of external support. The humanitarian consequences of this conflict remain dire, underscoring the need for a concerted international effort to restore peace and stability.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com