General Burhan Declares Khartoum Free as RSF Retreats Amid…

General Burhan returned to the presidential palace in Khartoum for the first time in nearly two years, signaling significant gains for the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Recent military offensives have resulted in territorial recoveries and increased violence in Darfur, with humanitarian concerns mounting. Tensions with Chad have also escalated amid threats from the SAF, increasing fears of a regional spillover of conflict.

On Wednesday, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the leader of Sudan’s army and the de facto head of state, arrived at the presidential palace for the first time in nearly two years. His arrival was marked by the announcement from the Transitional Sovereignty Council which he chairs. Photographs shared by the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) depicted Burhan in the palace, a significant location previously held by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) since the outbreak of conflict in April 2023.

Burhan addressed the nation on state television, asserting, “Khartoum is free; it’s done.” His arrival was facilitated via Khartoum International Airport, which indicates that the SAF may have regained control of this critical facility, previously under RSF management. This visit follows a recent military offensive that has seen the SAF reclaim the presidential palace and make considerable territorial gains.

Reports reveal that the army has made significant progress, surrounding the southern Jebel Awliya area and securing both sides of the Manshiya Bridge across the Blue Nile River. Concurrently, activists in Khartoum noted substantial RSF withdrawals from various neighborhoods, including Gereif West and Burri, as tensions continue to escalate throughout the capital.

The SAF has intensified its military campaigns, targeting RSF strongholds in Darfur after retaking control of central Khartoum. The Sudanese war monitoring group, Emergency Lawyers, disclosed a recent shelling incident in North Darfur that resulted in numerous civilian fatalities. According to local aid organizations, casualty figures from the attack vary significantly, with estimates ranging up to 126 reported deaths, prompting widespread condemnation.

The aggressive action in Darfur shows an escalation of conflict and suggests that the SAF is intent on eliminating RSF control across Sudan. Following the RSF’s formation of a parallel government in March, concerns arose regarding the potential partitioning of the country. The ongoing military actions may indicate the SAF’s determination to prevent such a division.

Regional tensions are also heightened with allegations against Chad for its support of the RSF. After the recent military developments, Yasser al-Atta, the SAF’s assistant commander, warned of potential retaliatory strikes against Chad, labeling it as a supporter of the RSF. Chad’s government responded sternly, asserting its right to defend itself against any aggression.

The conflict has resulted in severe humanitarian consequences, with death toll estimates reaching as high as 150,000 and more than 12.5 million displaced individuals, according to international monitors. There is also a looming crisis concerning acute malnutrition affecting approximately 3.2 million children in Sudan this year. The situation remains dire, with the potential for further escalation of violence and humanitarian suffering.

The recent developments in Sudan highlight a critical shift in the power dynamics as General Burhan’s return to the presidential palace signifies significant military advancements by the SAF against the RSF. The ongoing conflict, particularly in Darfur, continues to raise alarms regarding humanitarian implications, with rising casualties and widespread displacement. Furthermore, regional instability due to tensions with Chad could exacerbate the situation, necessitating immediate international attention and intervention to prevent further escalation and humanitarian crises in the region.

Original Source: www.al-monitor.com