War in Sudan must end to halt humanitarian and political crisis

THE civil war in Sudan, which began in April 2023, has become one of the most devastating conflicts in recent times. Despite the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) reclaiming the presidential palace in the capital Khartoum at the weekend, the conflict continues without any resolution.

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The recent escalation in Omdurman with Rapid Support Forces (RSF) shelling resulting in civilian casualties emphasises this ongoing violence. The underlying causes of the conflict remain unaddressed, perpetuating a cycle of violence. Neither side, the SAF or RSF, are definitively ending.

Although the SAF’s recapture of the state television, as well as the presidential palace, represent symbolic victories, it is unlikely to advance the cause of peace significantly.

The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) maintain control over substantial areas of Sudan, including parts of Khartoum and Darfur. Despite the SAF’s military gains, the RSF continue re-grouping and launching counter-offensives. The paramilitary force’s recent lightning operations, which involved drone attacks resulting in the deaths of journalists and military personnel, illustrates its ability to disrupt the already precarious efforts. The persistent instability means that Khartoum, the political and administrative centre of Sudan, remains contested battleground.