Khartoum: Sudanese army chief General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan made a rare visit to the military’s General Command headquarters in central Khartoum on Sunday, marking his first appearance there since government forces announced breaking a months-long blockade by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
Accompanied by senior military officials, Burhan commended the “resilience and sacrifices” of soldiers who had defended the strategic site for 20 months. He vowed to “eradicate” the RSF, pledging to pursue its fighters “in every corner of Sudan.”
Burhan also acknowledged the army’s ongoing operations in other parts of the country, including Omdurman, Bahri, and El Fasher, where intense fighting has recently escalated. The army announced on Friday that it had lifted the RSF siege on the General Command headquarters, describing the move as a significant milestone in the nearly two-year-long conflict.
RSF Denials and Internal Divisions
The RSF dismissed the army’s claims of victory as “propaganda” intended to boost morale among government forces. On the same day, an advisor to the RSF leadership resigned, citing the paramilitary’s targeting of civilians as his reason for stepping down.
The war, which began in April 2023, stems from a bitter power struggle between the Sudanese army and the RSF. The conflict has devastated the country, leaving tens of thousands dead, displacing millions, and creating a dire humanitarian crisis.
Allegations of Foreign Involvement
Both sides have accused each other of receiving foreign support. The RSF has alleged that the army is backed by Egypt, while the Sudanese government claims the RSF is supported by external actors, including the United Arab Emirates. Both sides have denied these accusations.
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Humanitarian Concerns Escalate
International organizations have expressed alarm over the escalating violence and its catastrophic impact on Sudan’s civilian population. The World Health Organization (WHO) reiterated its call on Saturday for an end to attacks on healthcare workers and facilities.
The ongoing war has crippled access to essential services, including food, water, and medical care, with humanitarian groups struggling to reach affected areas due to the volatile security situation.
As the conflict shows little sign of abating, Burhan’s visit and his statements signal the Sudanese army’s intent to intensify operations against the RSF, raising concerns about further escalation and civilian suffering in the weeks to come.
