Sudan: the Sudanese Armed Forces retake the capital

Translated by Irene Cecchi

Nearly two years after the outbreak of civil war in Sudan, the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) have retaken the capital, Khartoum, which had been under the control of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) since the start of the conflict. Thanks to a lightning-fast offensive, within a week the SAF regained control of the Presidential Palace, the Central Bank and finally the airport.

The paramilitary forces were forced to retreat southward. However, despite the SAF's advance, the RSF still control a large part of the territory, including the Darfur region, a strategically vital area in western Sudan.

The recapture of the capital holds dual significance: strategic and symbolic. Strategically, the SAF now have direct access to major logistical hubs and supply routes, previously held by the RSF, significantly reducing the latter's operational capacity. On the symbolic front, the capita l—home to the Presidential Palace and thus the center of governmental power— was the starting point of the conflict. It was swiftly seized and placed under RSF control, forcing the government to relocate to Port Sudan. Upon arriving in Khartoum, army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan declared the capital “free”.

Taking a step back…

The conflict, driven by a struggle for power, broke out on April 15th 2023, between the SAF, led by General and Head of State Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the RSF, commanded by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, commonly known as "Hemedti." Initially, the two groups were allies following the 2019 coup that removed President Omar Hasan Ahmad al-Bashir. In 2021, the two generals led another military coup, this time ousting Prime Minister Abdallah Hamdok of the transitional government.

The following year, under international pressure, both parties agreed to begin a democratic transition. A key element of the process was a proposed military reform, which involved integrating the RSF into the regular army.

However, differences emerged over how and when to carry out the integration: while the SAF proposed a two-year plan, the RSF demanded a gradual process over ten years. These disagreements eventually erupted into armed conflict.

More than a national issue

The war in Sudan is entangled in complex geopolitical dynamics, driven by the conflicting interests of external actors influencing the course of the conflict. Sudan occupies a strategic position, bordering seven countries and facing the Red Sea. Its location makes it a crucial hub for both commercial and military routes. Additionally, Sudan is rich in crude oil and gold, resources that attract the attention of regional and international powers.

The RSF are backed by the United Arab Emirates, which is interested in gold trafficking. By supplying weapons and funding, and making major investments, they have secured significant control over trade routes.

On the other side, Iran and Egypt support the SAF. Providing strategic and logistical assistance, as well as weapons, they have aided the army’s advance toward the capital. Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Turkey have also shown support, aligned with their own regional interests.

Russia sits ambiguously in the middle, seeking a naval base in Port Sudan. Moscow plays both sides, supporting each party to maintain influence in the region rather than taking a clear stance on the conflict’s outcome.

The price of war: hunger, violence, and survival

The conflict has caused a staggering number of casualties and an unprecedented humanitarian crisis.

Both armed groups are accused of committing severe human rights violations, including systematic killings, indiscriminate bombings of populated areas and the use of rape as a weapon of war. They are also accused of obstructing the delivery of humanitarian aid, worsening an already dire situation.

Violence and bombings have forced millions to flee their homes. Estimates suggest around 12 million people displaced. To this crisis is added an even worse one: a food crisis. A large part of the population is facing acute food insecurity, with extremely limited access to food and drinking water.

And the future?

In February, the RSF signed an agreement to form a parallel government, though no concrete steps have been taken since. Nevertheless, fears of a separatist government remain high.

Sudan’s political future remains uncertain. Despite the SAF’s recent successes —which mark a significant turning point— peace still appears far. Neither side shows willingness to engage in dialogue or make compromises.

With ongoing support from regional and international players, both factions are trying to consolidate their territories and maintain control over strategic positions. The SAF seek to present themselves as the unique legitimate force to lead the country; meanwhile, the RSF remain determined to challenge central authority.

Civilians continue to be the primary victims of a conflict driven by personal ambitions and foreign interests. Once again, Sudan is fighting for its very survival.

Mondo Internazionale APS - Riproduzione Riservata ® 2025