The capture of the Al-Zurq base marks a significant tactical gain for the Sudanese army and its allies in the ongoing conflict against the RSF.
Macron's calls for a ceasefire reflect growing international concern over the humanitarian crisis in Sudan, highlighting the need for urgent diplomatic efforts.
If the conflict continues without intervention, the humanitarian situation in Sudan may deteriorate further, leading to increased casualties and displacement.
There may be a potential shift in power dynamics in Darfur as the joint forces gain more control, impacting the future of the RSF and the Sudanese army.
Sudanese Army Gains Control of Al-Zurq Base Amid Ongoing Conflict
The Sudanese army announced on December 21, 2024, that allied forces have successfully taken control of the Al-Zurq military base in North Darfur, previously held by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This operation resulted in the seizure of several combat vehicles and the reported deaths of dozens of RSF personnel. The Al-Zurq base is strategically located near the borders of Sudan, Chad, and Libya, making it a significant asset in the ongoing conflict.
The joint force that captured the base is composed of armed movements from the Darfur region, which signed the Juba Peace Agreement with the Sudanese government in 2020. This coalition, under the supervision of Darfur Governor Minni Arko Minawi, has aligned with the Sudanese army to combat the RSF, which has been engaged in a brutal conflict with the army since April 2023.
International Calls for Ceasefire and Humanitarian Aid
In light of the escalating violence, French President Emmanuel Macron has urged both the Sudanese army and the RSF to
lay down their weapons.
During his visit to the Horn of Africa, Macron emphasized that the only viable solution to the ongoing conflict is through ceasefire and negotiations. He highlighted the suffering of the Sudanese people and called for regional actors to contribute positively to the peace process.
The conflict in Sudan has resulted in over 20,000 deaths and displaced more than 14 million people, according to estimates from the United Nations and local authorities. The humanitarian situation is dire, with approximately 26 million individuals facing severe food insecurity. The UN has raised alarms about what could become the most serious food crisis in modern history if the conflict continues unabated.
