The Sudanese Armed Forces’ recent recapture of the presidential palace marks a pivotal moment in the conflict with the Rapid Support Forces, signaling potential momentum for military victory. While the SAF has regained significant territory, the RSF remains entrenched, highlighting the challenges to achieving lasting peace and addressing the humanitarian crisis which has left millions suffering.
The recent recapture of the presidential palace in Khartoum represents a significant advancement for the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) in their ongoing conflict with the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Having lost control of the capital at the onset of the war two years ago, the SAF has managed to reclaim substantial territory amid their efforts to wrest authority from the RSF, which facilitates their narrative as the legitimate governing force against what they deem a “terrorist militia.”
The successful reclamation of the palace, a key symbol of governmental authority, marks an important strategic victory for the army. Reports indicate that the military has cleared several outer districts of greater Khartoum, regaining much of the city center, thereby diminishing the RSF’s influence over critical sites, including government buildings and the military’s General Headquarters. Nonetheless, RSF fighters remain entrenched within Khartoum, suggesting further conflict is imminent as the SAF seeks to eliminate remaining opposition.
The circumstances indicate that even while RSF control in the capital has waned, their capability to launch tactical strikes remains intact, evidenced by a recent drone attack on the palace itself. A decisive military victory for the SAF in Khartoum could significantly alter the war’s trajectory, potentially consolidating their power in the central regions of Sudan. Conversely, the risk of the country descending into a de facto partition remains a critical concern, as both factions deepen their territorial claims.
General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, leads the RSF and holds sway in Darfur and parts of southern Sudan, while army chief General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan steers control over eastern and northern Sudan. Their collaborative history, marked by a coup, has evolved into a violent struggle for dominance since April 2023. Gaining full control over Khartoum could not only bolster the SAF’s position significantly but also facilitate strategic moves against RSF strongholds, like El Fasher in Darfur, where the RSF has been active for nearly a year.
As the war continues, it is crucial to note the humanitarian crisis accentuated by conflict. The United Nations has branded the situation in Sudan the world’s worst humanitarian crisis, with millions facing severe food shortages. Khartoum is poised to hit famine conditions soon, complicating the aid distribution hindered by both warring parties. Despite a potential change of power within the capital, immediate improvements in the humanitarian situation for the populace seem unlikely, as both factions have been accused of obstructing emergency assistance.
Despite the SAF’s recent gains, the International Crisis Group suggests a complete military victory that enables either party to govern Sudan is improbable. Unfortunately, both factions remain committed to their endgame despite failing peace negotiations. The continuing violence signifies a harsh reality for the Sudanese people, who have endured immense turmoil and suffering throughout this bloody conflict.
The recapture of the presidential palace may signify a turning point in the Sudanese conflict, providing the SAF with momentum against the RSF. However, with both factions persistently claiming territory and engaged in drawn-out hostilities, the likelihood of achieving lasting peace remains bleak. Observers express concerns about an impending partition, while the humanitarian crisis continues to worsen, exacerbating the plight of millions affected by this brutal war.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
