Sudden Military Victory in Khartoum: A Turning Point in Sudan's Civil War

In a dramatic shift in Sudan’s ongoing civil war, paramilitary forces of the Rapid Support Forces (R.S.F.) have begun a massive withdrawal from Khartoum, the war-torn capital they occupied for nearly two years. This retreat comes as Sudan’s military claims a significant victory, marking a pivotal moment in what has become Africa's largest ongoing conflict.

Recent drone footage released by the military has shown hundreds of R.S.F. fighters fleeing across a dam on the Nile at Jebel Aulia, which appears to be their final escape route from the capital. Brigadier General Nabil Abdullah confirmed that the army has successfully taken over the last major R.S.F. campsite in Khartoum, stating, "This was their last remaining camp in Khartoum. A few remnants remain in pockets here and there. They will soon be destroyed."

The conflict erupted almost two years ago, rooted in a power struggle between two generals: one leading the Sudanese military and the other heading the R.S.F. The discord was sparked by disagreements over integrating the R.S.F. into the regular military forces. Since the onset of hostilities, the brutal struggle has resulted in an estimated 150,000 deaths and displaced over 13 million people, creating the world’s largest displacement crisis. Reports from refugees highlight harrowing experiences of violence, massacres, and devastating starvation.

Celebrations erupted as civilians in Khartoum greeted the military's arrival in the southern part of the city. In Kalakla, just ten miles south of the city center, crowds gathered to cheer on military personnel parading on motorcycles, also reflecting a desire for a return to normalcy amidst the chaos that has plagued their lives.

This rapid withdrawal of R.S.F. forces followed the military's takeover of the presidential palace just five days earlier—a crucial strategic and symbolic win that has shifted the momentum of the conflict. Following this loss, the military has progressively consolidated control across Khartoum, making significant advances, including reports of securing the international airport, which has been left in ruins since the beginning of the war in April 2023.

Though pockets of R.S.F. resistance remain, with ongoing bursts of gunfire and explosions still heard in the city, the Sudanese military seems poised to continue its advances. The situation remains dynamic, prompting analysts to question what comes next for the region and those displaced by the fighting. As the world watches closely, the humanitarian implications of this conflict remain high, turning international attention towards the desperate need for peace and stability in Sudan.