In brief
As the Sudanese army pushes forward, Khartoum's residents experience a turbulent surge in clashes, with reported gains against RSF forces highlighting a potential shift in the two-year conflict.
As the army claims large territories in Khartoum, residents are filled with a mixture of hope and fear as humanitarian conditions worsen. Sudanese residents in Khartoum are witnessing a surge in military clashes as the army claims it has recaptured significant territories from Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitaries. Recent operations have allowed the army to regain control of important sites, including the national mint, marking a substantial victory within this ongoing struggle. However, despite these advances, RSF forces continue to dominate much of the capital area, retaining control over crucial urban zones.Gen Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, head of the Sudanese army, announced on Tuesday that the military is determined to clear Khartoum of rebel presence, indicating a shift in momentum. This renewed offensive follows the army’s significant recovery of the Gezira state, which the military now sees as a catalyst for reclaiming the capital.Despite the military’s claims of progress, conditions for civilians remain dire. More than 100,000 people in Khartoum are reportedly facing famine, worsened by nearly two years of conflict between Gen Burhan and his rival, RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan “Hemedti” Dagalo. The civil war has displaced approximately 12 million individuals and reportedly led to the deaths of tens of thousands of civilians, with allegations of severe human rights abuses levied against both factions in this chaotic struggle.Witness accounts suggest that while the army has been warmly received in some recaptured areas, there is underlying fear among the population as allegations against the RSF involve heinous acts of violence and sexual assault against civilians. The RSF has dismissed the army’s claims, suggesting reports of their retreat are unfounded.The army is augmenting its strength through increased recruitment and procurement of supplies, which has contributed to their recent successes. However, past military victories have been marred by accusations of brutal reprisals against supposed RSF collaborators, stirring anxiety within communities that have attempted to navigate the precarious landscape of loyalty and survival during war.Khartoum residents like Amir express concerns for their loved ones, fearing potential backlash from both the army and RSF as the conflict continues to evolve. As the situation remains fraught with uncertainty, the city awaits a resolution, while residents like Mustafa and Amir ponder their safety amidst the military’s advancing forces.In the backdrop, international organizations have classed Sudan's humanitarian crisis as one of the worst in the world, emphasizing the urgent need for protection and support for vulnerable populations amid ongoing violence and instability.
