Sudan Military Seizes Control of Presidential Palace Amid Ongoing Civil War

Sudan’s military has regained the presidential palace in Khartoum after nearly two years of civil war, marking a significant shift in the conflict’s dynamics. With foreign support from countries like Russia and Iran bolstering their efforts, the army faces off against the Rapid Support Forces in a conflict that has led to widespread humanitarian strife and mass displacement across the nation.

After almost two years of intense conflict, Sudan’s military has regained control of the presidential palace in Khartoum, which served as the last stronghold of rival paramilitary groups. Videos showed soldiers celebrating inside the building, now marked by shattered windows and damaged walls, as they chanted triumphant slogans. This development marks a significant milestone for the army, which has faced severe challenges since the civil war’s onset in April 2023.

Despite this victory, the battle for Khartoum and the ongoing war are far from concluded. The Sudanese army has benefitted from foreign support, particularly arms and financial assistance from Russia and Iran, which have bolstered its position on the ground. The army’s resurgence can be attributed to the formation of new militia units and a shift in military strategy, capitalizing on the weaknesses of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

The conflict erupted following a power struggle between Gen Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the de facto president, and his deputy Gen Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (Hemedti). This rivalry has transformed Sudan into a war-torn nation, with severe humanitarian consequences impacting approximately 50 million citizens, leading to widespread famine and mass displacement.

Various regional entities have engaged in the conflict, each seeking to advance their own geopolitical interests. The United Arab Emirates has been accused of supporting the RSF, while Sudan’s army has turned to allies like Russia and Iran for military aid as its calls for support from Western nations went unheeded. Russia’s strategic interest in establishing a naval base in Sudan further complicates the dynamics of the conflict.

Moscow had previously adopted a neutral stance but has since decided to support the Sudanese army, perceiving potential benefits following the Syrian conflict. Iran has also re-established ties with Sudan and is allegedly supplying advanced military technology and drones to the Sudanese military, contributing to its enhanced operational capabilities.

Although the presence of foreign drones has raised the stakes, the army’s ability to organize and recruit additional manpower appears vital in combating the RSF. Analysts suggest that while foreign assistance has played a part, the army’s strategic maneuvers and local recruitment efforts are pivotal in shifting the conflict’s balance.

Despite progress, the situation remains precarious for Sudanese civilians, who endure devastating conditions marked by violence and instability. Many residents, like Issra Hassan, describe the constant fear and unpredictability of living amid conflict. She expressed deep concern about the rampant recruitment practices by the armed forces, where underage individuals are enlisted to safeguard neighborhoods, complicating an already dire humanitarian crisis.

The circumstances in the region continue to evolve rapidly, leaving the civilian population caught in a relentless cycle of violence and uncertainty as various factions vie for dominance.

The control of the presidential palace by Sudan’s military signifies a critical turn in the ongoing civil war, driven by both local military strategies and foreign support. As conflict continues to ravage the nation, the humanitarian crisis deepens, raising urgent concerns for the safety of civilians caught in the crossfire. The international community’s response and the capacity for internal resolution remain crucial as the situation in Sudan develops.

Original Source: www.telegraph.co.uk