BREAKING: The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have captured the Sudanese army’s headquarters in Al-Fashir, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing conflict in Sudan. This development, confirmed by video evidence, showcases RSF soldiers celebrating in front of the army’s Sixth Infantry base. Al-Fashir has been under siege for the past 18 months, and this takeover could lead to a significant political shift in the region.
The RSF’s control over Al-Fashir represents a crucial victory that may expedite a physical split of Sudan, allowing the paramilitary group to solidify its dominance in the vast Darfur region. This area has become a base for a parallel government established earlier this year. However, activists express grave concerns that RSF dominance could trigger a surge in ethnic violence, similar to incidents following the RSF’s takeover of the Zamzam camp to the south.
The humanitarian crisis in Al-Fashir is dire, with around 250,000 people facing starvation due to the siege. The RSF has been accused of targeting civilians with drone and artillery strikes, compounding the suffering of those trapped in the city. Reports indicate that residents have been cut off from traditional communication, relying on Starlink terminals to access the internet amid an ongoing telecom blackout.
While the RSF claims to be facilitating the safe exit of civilians and surrendered fighters from Al-Fashir, those who have managed to leave report harrowing experiences involving robberies, sexual assaults, and killings by RSF soldiers. The United Nations previously stated that the RSF has committed multiple crimes against humanity during the siege, with the Sudanese army also facing accusations of war crimes.
Local fighters known as the Popular Resistance, aligned with the Sudanese army, assert they are continuing their fight against the RSF. They emphasize that the takeover of the army base does not equate to full control of the city.
The conflict between the Sudanese army and the RSF erupted in April 2023 after tensions escalated over plans to integrate their forces during a transition to democracy. This brutal clash has displaced millions and plunged half of Sudan into hunger while spreading disease throughout the country.
In response to the escalating crisis, the United States convened officials from Emirati, Egyptian, and Saudi Arabian governments over the weekend to discuss a potential peace plan. Meanwhile, Sudan’s foreign ministry confirmed officials were in Washington DC for bilateral talks. However, the army-led Sovereign Council has denied reports of any indirect negotiations between the warring factions.
As developments continue to unfold, the international community watches closely, aware that the situation in Sudan could deteriorate further. Stay tuned for updates on this rapidly evolving story as it impacts the lives of countless civilians caught in the conflict.
