Sudan’s Joint Forces, a coalition aligned with the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), announced the capture of El Zurug, a pivotal Rapid Support Forces (RSF) base in North Darfur. The operation carried out on December 23, 2024, targeted six RSF garrisons and involved intense battles lasting over five hours, culminating in a declared victory for the joint forces.
El Zurug’s location near the Sudanese-Libyan-Chadian border triangle makes it a critical hub for RSF military logistics and smuggling operations. Since 2017, the RSF has allegedly used the area as a fortified base, reportedly displacing over 140,000 residents to consolidate control.
Operation Details
Maj Ahmed Hussein, spokesperson for the joint forces, described the operation as a decisive victory. He reported the seizure of multiple facilities, including El Zurug’s primary military base, an airport, and four additional bases. Large stockpiles of fuel, weapons, and ammunition—reportedly integral to RSF operations—were also confiscated.
Governor of Darfur Minni Arko Minawi praised the operation, stating that it was a necessary response to recent RSF attacks on El Fasher, Zamzam Camp, and Abu Zereiga. Similarly, Finance Minister Jibril Ibrahim, leader of the Justice and Equality Movement, described El Zurug as the RSF’s “most critical stronghold” in North Darfur and commended the success of the joint forces.
RSF’s Counterclaims
The RSF, however, countered on December 24, claiming to have retaken El Zurug after launching a dawn assault. In a statement, the RSF accused the joint forces of committing atrocities, including ethnic cleansing and the deliberate targeting of women, children, and the elderly. The RSF also released video footage allegedly showing destroyed civilian infrastructure, including homes, markets, and water wells.
Joint Forces’ Response
The joint forces dismissed the RSF’s allegations as baseless propaganda. Julius Issawi, a member of their information committee, reiterated that El Zurug was a legitimate military target, emphasizing that civilians were not present at the site during the operation.
On December 24, the joint forces released videos purportedly showing their troops inspecting RSF bases and weapons seized during the operation, further fueling tensions.
Broader Implications
The capture of El Zurug underscores the escalating conflict in Sudan, with both sides vying for control over strategically significant territories. While the joint forces celebrate their success, the RSF’s counterclaims and accusations highlight the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region.
As the situation in North Darfur remains volatile, concerns about civilian safety and regional stability continue to grow, further complicating efforts to achieve peace and order.
