Sudan army surrounds Khartoum airport in battle for capital, military sources say

The ongoing conflict in Sudan has reached a critical point as the Sudanese army continues its efforts to oust the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) from their last stronghold in Khartoum. The army recently gained control of the RSF’s last base in central Sudan, the Tiba al-Hassanab camp south of the capital, marking a significant advance in the battle for control of the country.

As the army encircles Khartoum airport, tensions are running high in the capital. Witnesses report that the RSF has concentrated its forces in southern Khartoum, possibly in preparation for a withdrawal from the city via bridges to the neighboring city of Omdurman. The recent gains by the Sudanese army in central Sudan come as the RSF consolidates its control in the west, creating a dangerous situation that threatens to further divide the country.

The conflict, which began two years ago during a fragile democratic transition, has caused immense suffering for the people of Sudan. The United Nations has declared it the world’s largest humanitarian crisis, with widespread famine and disease outbreaks affecting millions of people. Over 12.5 million people have been displaced from their homes, seeking refuge in neighboring countries as the violence rages on.

The roots of the current conflict can be traced back to a coup in 2021 orchestrated by the army and RSF, which derailed the transition from the rule of former autocrat Omar al-Bashir. The two factions, once allies in the fight against Bashir’s government in Darfur, turned against each other over disagreements about power-sharing and civilian oversight. The RSF, led by Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, clashed with the army over integration into the regular armed forces and the chain of command.

Despite initial setbacks, the Sudanese army is now making a renewed push to regain control of the capital and central Sudan. The recent capture of the presidential palace in downtown Khartoum is a symbolic victory for the army, signaling their determination to restore order and stability to the country. With the conflict showing no signs of abating, the people of Sudan continue to suffer as the rival factions battle for control of their future.