Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (Hemeti), commander of Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF), accused Egypt of conducting air strikes against his troops. Egypt denied these accusations and called for the international community to verify the claims. Hemeti further alleged foreign interventions favoring the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and highlighted the humanitarian crisis resulting from the ongoing conflict, which has displaced millions.
Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemeti, who commands Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF), has publicly accused Egypt of conducting aerial attacks against his troops near Khartoum. In a recorded address, he claimed that Egyptian aircraft have targeted his units in the Jebel Moya area, asserting, “We have remained silent for a long time about Egyptian air involvement in the war, hoping they would withdraw, but now they have escalated.” Egypt’s foreign ministry responded by categorically denying these allegations, urging the international community to scrutinize Hemeti’s claims. Hemeti further accused Egypt of providing training and drone support to the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), which has been engaged in conflict with the RSF since April 2023. Recent analyses suggest that Hemeti’s statements might reflect a change in the conflict’s dynamics, possibly indicating foreign intervention favoring the Sudanese army. While there have been reports of Egyptian military backing for the SAF, it has been indicated that Egypt has recently reduced its level of direct involvement. Compounding the situation, Hemeti alleged that bombs used in the conflict were of American manufacture and that Iranian forces were participating alongside the SAF. He also claimed that various mercenaries from different nations are involved in the hostilities. These accusations arose shortly after the United States imposed sanctions on Hemeti’s brother, further complicating the already volatile situation. Moreover, the ongoing conflict has led to significant humanitarian crises, displacing over 10 million persons and placing millions at risk of famine, with ongoing battles causing extensive suffering and instability in Sudan. While discussions brokered by the U.S. aimed at achieving a ceasefire have failed, both parties agreed to enhance humanitarian access, although there is little hope of immediate peace, according to Hemeti, who predicted a prolonged conflict. International rights groups have accused the RSF of severe human rights violations, including acts that could be classified as genocide. The fighting continues to escalate, particularly in regions such as el-Fasher, where civilians are increasingly endangered.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan involves a power struggle between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which was initiated in April 2023. The rival factions have engaged in violent confrontations over territorial control, particularly around the capital, Khartoum. Hemeti, leading the RSF, has expressed concerns about alleged foreign interventions, particularly the support the SAF receives from Egypt, a key regional ally. The war has resulted in severe humanitarian challenges, including mass displacement and significant hunger crises affecting millions. As tensions rise, both local and international communities remain alarmed regarding the escalating violence and its repercussions for civilians in Sudan.
In summary, the allegations made by Hemeti against Egypt highlight the complexities and international dimensions of the conflict in Sudan. Despite Egypt’s denial of involvement, the situation underscores the fragile nature of regional alliances and the potential for external influences in the ongoing war between the RSF and SAF. The humanitarian toll continues to rise as millions suffer from displacement and food insecurity, signaling an urgent need for effective and lasting solutions to the crisis.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
