Summary
Sudan’s army has initiated a significant offensive to reclaim the capital, Khartoum, from the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which have held control over the city for more than a year. This assault, marked by airstrikes and artillery bombardments, represents the army’s largest operation since the outbreak of civil war in April 2023, aiming to disrupt RSF positions and regain strategic control within the capital.
The offensive began early on September 26, 2024, with reports indicating that the army has successfully captured key infrastructure, including three major bridges linking Khartoum to Omdurman. As fighting intensifies, military sources emphasize that the operation has been in preparation for months, reflecting a strategic shift in the army’s approach against RSF forces, which have proven resilient in urban combat. The ongoing conflict has led to a severe humanitarian crisis, with millions displaced and widespread hunger affecting over half of Sudan’s population. Diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict have largely stalled, with the army’s leadership rejecting negotiations with the RSF, further complicating the prospects for peace.
Background of the Conflict
The conflict in Sudan escalated dramatically after a power struggle between army chief General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and RSF commander Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, who were once allies. Since the outbreak of hostilities, the RSF has been accused of committing numerous human rights abuses, including violence against civilians and looting. The humanitarian situation has deteriorated significantly, with reports of over 20,000 deaths and millions forced from their homes due to the fighting.
Current Developments
As the army pushes into Khartoum, there are mixed sentiments among civilians. While some express hope for an end to RSF control, others remain fearful of the escalating violence. Local activists and humanitarian workers report that the situation is precarious, with ongoing battles causing significant disruption to daily life and humanitarian efforts. The international community continues to call for immediate action to protect civilians and facilitate humanitarian aid amidst the chaos.
Implications for the Future
The outcome of this offensive could reshape the power dynamics in Sudan and influence the broader regional stability. Observers note that while the army’s advances may bolster its position, the entrenched nature of the RSF in urban areas suggests that achieving lasting control will be challenging. The conflict’s continuation raises concerns about further humanitarian crises and the potential for increased violence in the region.
Amid a war, what is it like reporting from Sudan?
Oct. 5 / Npr / Explores the devastating impact of the conflict on daily life and humanitarian conditions. It paints a grim picture of the war's toll, making it a compelling narrative on the human cost of the violence. “ In Sudan, a year and a half of devastating conflict has destroyed much of the capital and brought most of the country to the brink of famine.
What will bring an end to Sudan’s conflict?
Sep. 27 / Al Jazeera / Combines a summary of military advances with a critical examination of both sides' willingness to negotiate. It raises important questions about the conflict's resolution, appealing to readers seeking deeper analysis. “ Sudan’s army made some gains in the capital Khartoum this week. Sudan’s army now controls three important bridges in and out of the capital. But heavy...
Sudanese army launches offensive to recapture Khartoum
Sep. 26 / Voanews / Offers eyewitness accounts and military reports, detailing the offensive's scale and strategy. The context of the generals’ rivalry adds layers to the understanding of the conflict's origins and implications. “ Sources within the Sudanese military and witnesses at the scene say Sudan’s army on Thursday launched an early morning offensive in the capital, Khartoum,...
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Sep. 27 / Npr / Addresses the army's recent gains while questioning the potential for peace. Engages with experts to provide nuanced insights, making it a thoughtful exploration of the conflict's future trajectory. “ Good morning. You're reading the Up First newsletter. Subscribe here to get it delivered to your inbox, and listen to the Up First podcast for all the news...
Sudan's jailed former strongman Omar al-Bashir moved to better-equipped hospital
Sep. 25 / Voanews / Provides a detailed account of Omar al-Bashir's health and transfer, contextualizing the ongoing conflict. Its focus on al-Bashir highlights the historical roots of the current crisis, enriching the narrative. “ Sudan's former autocratic President Omar al-Bashir, who ruled for 30 years before he was toppled in a popular uprising and then jailed by the country's...
Sudan army launches major bid to regain the capital Khartoum from paramilitary forces
Sep. 27 / Npr / Concise and direct, it outlines the army's intent to reclaim Khartoum, emphasizing the RSF's year-long control. Lacks depth but serves as a timely update on a critical phase in the conflict. “ Sudan's army launched a major offensive in Khartoum in a bid to regain the capital. The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, or RSF, have been in control of...
Is Sudan’s army on the verge of recapturing Khartoum?
Sep. 27 / Al Jazeera / Highlights the army's recent advances in Khartoum while providing insights from local activists, capturing the complex sentiments of civilians caught between the RSF and military forces, enriching the narrative. “ Sudan’s army launched a major assault on Khartoum in a bid to recapture the capital from the Rapid Support Forces. In the early morning of September 26,...
Video: Fighting erupts in Sudan’s capital as army launches new offensive
Sep. 26 / Al Jazeera / Captures the immediacy of the situation with a focus on ongoing battles in Khartoum. The presence of a journalist on the ground enhances credibility and provides a vivid sense of the chaos unfolding. “ Battles have been taking place in Sudan’s capital Khartoum where the army has launched a new offensive against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces. Al...
Sudan’s Army Launches Operation to Retake Khartoum
Sep. 26 / The New York Times / Highlights the international community's response during the UN General Assembly. It connects local military actions to global diplomatic efforts, underscoring the broader implications of the conflict. “ The latest outbreak of fighting comes as nations gathered at the U.N. General Assembly called for an end to the war and for aid to be fast-tracked to...
Sudan’s army launches major offensive to retake Khartoum
Sep. 26 / Al Jazeera / Reiterates key developments in the offensive with a focus on military strategy and humanitarian crises. However, it could benefit from more personal accounts to balance the military-focused perspective. “ Sudan’s army has launched a major offensive in the capital, Khartoum, to regain ground held by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), military sources...
Sudan’s army launches major offensive to retake Khartoum
Sep. 26 / Al Jazeera / Presents a breaking news update, emphasizing military actions and territorial gains. While it lacks in-depth analysis, it effectively conveys the urgency of the situation and ongoing humanitarian concerns. “ Sudan’s army has launched a major offensive in the capital, Khartoum, to regain ground held by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), military sources...