On Tuesday, the Sudanese military escalated its endeavors to secure territorial advancements within the confines of the capital city, Khartoum. This marked a significant escalation in hostilities, representing some of the most intense combat experienced since the initiation of the conflict with an opposing military faction. This protracted feud has contributed to the exacerbation of a burgeoning humanitarian dilemma, further underscoring the gravity of the situation at hand.
Since Monday, the military has initiated airstrikes and employed heavy artillery in an attempt to seize control of a Nile-spanning bridge. This bridge is utilized by the opposing Rapid Support Forces (RSF) to transport reinforcements and weaponry from Omdurman to the adjacent cities, Bahri and Khartoum, which collectively constitute the broader capital area, as reported by residents.
The RSF, having established a significant presence within the capital when hostilities commenced in mid-April, mounted a robust retaliation. This response led to intense confrontations taking place within residential districts, thereby causing civilian casualties and subsequent displacement.
In the eastern Omdurman neighborhood, local activists confirmed the loss of life of no less than nine civilians.
The conflict erupted four years after the overthrow of Omar al-Bashir, following a widespread uprising. Tensions between the military and the RSF, who had jointly orchestrated a coup in 2021, reached a boiling point due to differing views on a proposed move toward civilian governance.
Both factions have asserted military progress in recent days, although there is no clear indication of a definitive breakthrough. Attempts facilitated by Saudi Arabia and the United States to broker a ceasefire have encountered obstacles and remain at an impasse.