The Sudanese army announced the recapture of Souq Libya in Omdurman from the RSF, marking a continuing offensive to regain control over the capital. The conflict, ignited by a power struggle almost two years ago, has led to significant civilian displacement. Despite the army’s advancements, areas of Omdurman remain under RSF control, emphasizing the ongoing turmoil in Sudan.
On Saturday, the Sudanese army announced that it had regained control of a significant market in Omdurman, a city adjacent to Khartoum, which had served as a base for the rival Rapid Support Forces (RSF) for carrying out attacks. This development marks a part of the army’s larger offensive this month aimed at reclaiming control over the capital region, encompassing Khartoum, Omdurman, and Bahri.
This military campaign has seen the army successfully retake the presidential palace on March 21, in addition to capturing the war-damaged airport and other strategic areas within the city center. Army spokesman Nabil Abdullah stated that forces established control over Souq Libya in Omdurman, confiscating various weapons and equipment abandoned by the fleeing RSF.
For months, Souq Libya was a stronghold for the RSF, serving as a launching point for attacks on parts of Omdurman since the conflict commenced on April 15, 2023. Although the army controls much of Omdurman, the RSF continues to maintain a presence, particularly in the Ombada district to the west of the city.
Recently, the military spokesman declared that the army had successfully eliminated the remaining RSF positions within Khartoum. The ongoing conflict, which began nearly two years ago due to a power struggle between the army and the RSF, a paramilitary organization that was once its ally, has led to severe consequences for the civilian population.
According to the United Nations, over 3.5 million residents have fled Khartoum since the outbreak of hostilities. Many others remain trapped in the city, surrounded by abandoned structures and devastated vehicles, amidst reports of hidden mass graves. The war has effectively divided Sudan, with the army maintaining control in the eastern and northern regions, while the RSF dominates much of the western Darfur region and portions of the southern areas.
The recent control of Souq Libya by the Sudanese army reflects the ongoing military offensive aimed at reclaiming the capital region from the Rapid Support Forces. Despite significant gains, the conflict, which stems from a power struggle between these factions, continues to have dire humanitarian implications, with millions displaced and living in dire conditions. The divide in control across Sudan further complicates the path to stability and peace in the nation.
Original Source: www.france24.com
