The Sudanese army has reclaimed most of Khartoum from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), marking a significant military victory in the ongoing conflict, residents reported on Wednesday. However, despite this gain, the war continues to divide Sudan into rival zones of control, with the RSF maintaining a strong presence in western regions.
Army Chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan visited Khartoum’s presidential palace and airport in a symbolic demonstration of the military’s control. His flight into the airport was the first to land there since the war began in April 2023, according to an army statement. The military also announced that it had seized a key RSF base south of the capital, which it described as the paramilitary group’s last major stronghold in Khartoum state.
The army released drone footage purportedly showing RSF forces retreating across the Nile, though these claims have not been independently verified. The RSF has not yet commented on the latest developments.
The recent territorial gains by the army in central Sudan have further solidified the country’s division, with the RSF entrenching itself in western regions. Experts warn that the situation could lead to a de facto partition of Sudan.
The war, which erupted two years ago during Sudan’s attempt at democratic transition, has created what the United Nations describes as the world’s largest humanitarian crisis. Widespread famine and disease outbreaks have devastated communities, displacing 12.5 million people, many of whom have fled to neighboring countries.
The conflict stems from a power struggle between the army and the RSF, which once operated in a fragile alliance. The two factions seized power together in a 2021 coup, disrupting Sudan’s transition from the Islamist rule of former President Omar al-Bashir. However, tensions escalated over an internationally backed plan that would have required both groups to cede power to a civilian-led government.
As the war drags on, concerns are growing over the long-term stability of Sudan, with no clear resolution in sight.
