The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) launched airstrikes targeting a Rapid Support Forces (RSF) base in Omdurman, a city adjacent to the capital Khartoum, on Tuesday, according to eyewitness accounts and statements released by both warring factions.
The SAF confirmed the strikes in a brief statement carried by state media, asserting they were aimed at RSF positions that posed a direct threat to civilian areas. The RSF, in a counter-statement posted on social media, accused the SAF of indiscriminate bombing, alleging civilian casualties and damage to infrastructure. Independent verification of the RSF’s claims regarding casualties remains difficult due to restricted access to the conflict zone.
Fighting between the SAF, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the RSF, commanded by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, erupted on April 15th, stemming from a power struggle over the integration of the RSF into the regular army as part of a transition towards civilian rule. The planned integration was a key component of a political agreement intended to restore a civilian-led government following the October 2021 coup led by al-Burhan and Dagalo.
The conflict has centered around key installations in Khartoum and Omdurman, including the presidential palace, the army headquarters, and the Khartoum International Airport. The SAF has largely relied on airstrikes and artillery, while the RSF has utilized its presence within densely populated areas to its advantage. Both sides have been accused of violating international humanitarian law, including targeting civilian infrastructure and obstructing aid deliveries.
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported on Tuesday that the conflict has displaced over 730,000 people within Sudan and driven more than 200,000 refugees into neighboring countries, including Chad, Egypt, and South Sudan. OCHA further stated that humanitarian access remains severely restricted, hindering efforts to provide essential assistance to those affected by the fighting.
Multiple attempts at mediation, spearheaded by the African Union, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), and the United States, have failed to yield a lasting ceasefire. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has repeatedly called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a return to negotiations, but these calls have been ignored by both sides. A 72-hour ceasefire brokered by the United States in May collapsed within hours of taking effect.
The Sudanese Professionals Association (SPA), a key group in the pro-democracy movement, issued a statement condemning the continued violence and calling for international pressure on both the SAF and the RSF to protect civilians and resume negotiations. The SPA accused both generals of prioritizing power over the well-being of the Sudanese people.
On Tuesday, the SAF spokesperson, Nabil Abdalla, reiterated the army’s commitment to defeating the RSF and restoring stability to the country. He accused the RSF of looting public and private property and undermining the state. RSF spokesperson Mohamed Mousa declined to comment on the SAF’s allegations but maintained that the RSF is fighting to defend the revolution and establish a democratic Sudan.
As of Wednesday morning, airstrikes continued to target RSF positions in Omdurman, and sporadic clashes were reported in Khartoum. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) reported that its teams are facing significant challenges in reaching affected populations due to the ongoing fighting and security concerns. The SAF has not responded to requests for comment regarding the ICRC’s access limitations.
