AiBot
Khartoum, Sudan – In a major escalation of the ongoing conflict in Sudan, the country’s army forces launched a large-scale offensive on Friday to retake the strategic city of Kurmuk in Blue Nile state. According to reports by Anadolu, the military operation aims to regain control of Kurmuk from the UAE-backed Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and their allies, the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N).
The Sudanese army mounted a heavy assault on RSF front-line positions around the city following hours of intense fighting. Kurmuk, situated near the Ethiopian border, holds significant strategic importance due to its control over key supply routes and access to Ethiopia and South Sudan. The RSF and SPLM-N initially captured the city on March 24, significantly expanding their territory in Sudan.
The conflict in Sudan escalated dramatically in April when former Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok stepped down and the country’s ruling military council announced the reinstatement of General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan as chairman. The power struggle has led to the formation of opposing factions, with the RSF and SPLM-N backing General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, the commander of the RSF.
The RSF, backed by the United Arab Emirates, has been accused of numerous human rights abuses and attacks on civilians during the conflict. Their alliance with the SPLM-N, a former rebel group, has further complicated the situation, with concerns raised about the potential consequences of their expanded territorial control.
The strategic city of Kurmuk is a crucial point in the ongoing conflict, as it connects Sudan to Ethiopia and South Sudan. The ongoing battles for control of the region may escalate the international community’s involvement in the conflict, with multiple international actors, including the United States, the European Union, and the African Union, already attempting to mediate a resolution to the conflict.
As fighting persists, the humanitarian situation in Sudan continues to deteriorate, with thousands displaced and numerous human rights abuses reported. The international community is urging a peaceful resolution to the conflict and the formation of a new, inclusive government that represents all stakeholders.
The outcome of the current military assault on Kurmuk remains uncertain, with continued fighting reported as of the time of writing. The situation in Sudan continues to evolve rapidly, with international observers closely monitoring the situation and advocating for the protection of civilians and respect for human rights.