Sudanese Army Reclaims Presidential Palace from RSF, Escalating Conflict

The Sudanese army recaptured the presidential palace from the RSF, resulting in a significant setback for the paramilitaries, who retaliated with drone attacks. Following the military’s victory, casualties were reported among both journalists and army personnel. The RSF has vowed to continue fighting for control, while the humanitarian crisis in Sudan deepens amidst the conflict.

The Sudanese army successfully reclaimed the presidential palace in Khartoum from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on Friday, marking a significant setback for the paramilitary group. Following this event, the RSF retaliated with drone strikes that resulted in the deaths of three journalists from state television while they were covering the army’s operations. An unnamed army source reported that several soldiers were also either killed or wounded due to the RSF’s drone attack.

The RSF stated through a Telegram post that they initiated a “lightning operation” around the palace, claiming to have caused casualties among the army and destroyed military vehicles. Despite the army’s recent advancements, the RSF warned that the conflict for the Republican Palace remains ongoing, indicating their continued presence and attempts to reclaim lost ground.

Eyewitnesses reported drone activity in the area as army soldiers celebrated their victory in the partially ruined palace. Footage displayed young volunteer fighters alongside the army engaged in jubilant celebrations. The ongoing conflict between Sudan’s warring generals began on April 15, 2023, when the RSF gained control over significant portions of Khartoum.

The ongoing war has resulted in a staggering death toll of tens of thousands and displacement of over 12 million individuals. Recent military strategies have shifted in favor of the army, particularly following their counteroffensive in Al-Jazira due to a crucial defection within RSF ranks. A retired general acknowledged that the palace’s reclamation stands as a considerable strike against the RSF, suggesting their eventual retreat from the capital is likely.

Further reports indicated that RSF members remain dispersed throughout central Khartoum, continuing their shelling despite losing control of the palace. Military analysts noted that the RSF sustained substantial losses, highlighting that the army’s entry into the palace symbolizes a shift in control of central Khartoum, negatively impacting RSF’s operational capabilities and elite forces.

In response, the RSF pledged to contest the army’s regained territory while its commander, Mohamed Hamdan Daglo Daglo, reaffirmed their intention to resist ongoing military pressure. The army has launched initiatives aimed at eliminating remaining RSF presence within urban areas of Khartoum, with plans for continued operations.

Despite the army’s progress, major regions including the western land of Darfur and parts of the south remain under RSF control. The humanitarian crisis persists, with millions of Sudanese facing severe food shortages, raising concerns amid ongoing conflict.

The Sudanese army’s retaking of the presidential palace represents a significant setback for the RSF amid their ongoing conflict. The situation remains fluid, with the RSF vowing to continue combat operations despite the army’s advances. This shift in control might facilitate further military gains for the army, however, significant challenges remain in areas still held by the RSF, coupled with grave humanitarian crises affecting millions of civilians.

Original Source: www.nbcrightnow.com