Renewed Clashes Erupt in Khartoum as Sudanese Army Targets Rapid Support Forces
In a significant escalation of violence, renewed clashes erupted in Khartoum on Friday morning between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). According to reports from Al Jazeera's correspondent, military sources confirmed that the army launched an offensive against RSF positions in central Khartoum, particularly around the Arab Market. Heavy and light weapons were deployed in these confrontations, with the Sudanese Air Force conducting airstrikes targeting RSF sites near the presidential palace. The fighting, described as the army's largest operation in the 17-month-long conflict, began at dawn on Thursday and has seen the army regain control of key areas, including access points to the White Nile and Al-Fatehhab bridges connecting Khartoum, Omdurman, and Bahri.
Eyewitness accounts indicate that the army has made significant territorial gains, although RSF leader Ibrahim Bakkal disputed claims of the army's control over the Arab Market. The ongoing military operations are aimed at securing the state in accordance with international law, as stated by Sudan's Transitional Sovereignty Council head, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan.
Civilian Casualties Surge Amidst Ongoing Violence in El Fasher
The situation in Sudan is dire, with reports emerging from El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur State, where 18 civilians were killed and 41 injured due to heavy artillery shelling by the RSF. Darfur Governor Minni Arko Minawi condemned the attack on the livestock market as a
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heinous crime
highlighting the urgent need for international accountability. The city of El Fasher has been under siege for months, experiencing violent clashes and artillery attacks from the RSF, leading to significant civilian displacement and a humanitarian crisis. The ongoing violence has not only threatened the safety of the local population but has also disrupted communications, complicating the assessment of casualties and damage.
In a related diplomatic development, Al-Burhan met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov at the UN General Assembly, discussing the situation in Sudan and expressing appreciation for Russia's support in efforts to restore peace and stability. The conflict has resulted in a staggering humanitarian toll, with estimates of over 20,000 deaths and more than 10 million people displaced, marking it as one of the worst crises in recent history. The international community faces increasing pressure to intervene and address these escalating humanitarian concerns.
