Sudan’s military recaptured Wad Madani from the RSF, a strategic city that had been under rebel control for over a year. The ongoing conflict has claimed over 28,000 lives and displaced millions. The situation has drawn the attention of international bodies, including sanctions against RSF leadership due to alleged atrocities and genocide committed during the war.
Sudan’s military, alongside allied forces, has regained control of Wad Madani from the rebel Rapid Support Forces (RSF), officials reported. This significant recapture transpired over a year after the city fell into RSF hands, which had previously served as a refuge for displaced families amid the ongoing conflict.
The conflict in Sudan erupted in April 2023, stemming from escalating tensions between military leaders and the RSF. Fighting quickly spread from the capital, Khartoum, to other cities, resulting in over 28,000 deaths and millions displaced, with many resorting to extreme measures to survive amid famine conditions.
Human rights organizations and the United Nations have reported numerous atrocities during the conflict, including ethnic killings and sexual violence. The International Criminal Court is currently investigating these potential war crimes, while the Biden administration has referred to the RSF’s actions as genocide, imposing sanctions on its leaders and associated entities.
The military announced that its troops entered Wad Madani on Saturday and were engaged in eliminating remaining RSF forces. A statement declared, “Congratulations to the Armed Forces, their supporting forces everywhere and to our people as they reclaim their dignity, security and stability.”
Culture and Information Minister Khalid Aleiser confirmed that the military and its allies “liberated” Wad Madani, which lies approximately 100km southeast of Khartoum. Footage shared on social media depicted celebrations among residents, who expressed joy over the city’s liberation, exclaiming, “Allah is Great.”
Since the RSF seized control of Wad Madani in December 2023, extensive displacement has occurred. The RSF has faced significant military setbacks recently, losing numerous territories in Khartoum and surrounding regions.
The war has precipitated an unprecedented displacement crisis, with over 14 million individuals, nearly 30% of Sudan’s population, forced from their homes. Notably, an estimated 3.2 million have fled to neighboring countries, including Chad, Egypt, and South Sudan.
Famine conditions have been recorded in at least five areas, including three displacement camps in Darfur, as reported by the Integrated Food Security Classification (IPC). The IPC further indicated that five additional regions may face famine in the upcoming six months, with more areas at potential risk.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan has its roots in power struggles between the military and the RSF, which escalated into a violent outbreak in April 2023. The RSF’s seizure of Wad Madani marked a significant event in the conflict, highlighting the humanitarian crisis unfolding within the country. As the war continues, it has led to extreme levels of violence, displacement, and food insecurity, prompting international reaction and an investigation into war crimes.
The recapture of Wad Madani by Sudan’s military is a pivotal moment in the ongoing conflict against the RSF, which has resulted in widespread suffering and displacement. The humanitarian situation remains dire, with millions affected by the war and famine conditions reported in multiple regions. International scrutiny and ongoing military operations suggest that the conflict will continue to evolve as both sides vie for control.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
