Fighting Breaks Out in Sudan’s Capital Following Ceasefire’s End
Clashes erupted once again in various parts of Sudan’s capital Khartoum on Wednesday as a 72-hour ceasefire, plagued by multiple violations, expired between Sudan’s warring military factions, according to witnesses cited by Reuters. Despite a series of truce agreements, the violence continues to ravage the Sudanese capital, resulting in civilian casualties and relentless airstrikes.
Ceasefire Ends, Renewed Violence Engulfs Khartoum
The truce, which had been agreed upon on Saturday, failed to quell the fighting that has plagued Khartoum, including its three constituent cities—Khartoum, Bahri, and Omdurman. Just before the ceasefire came to an end at 6 am local time, clashes were reported in all three cities, exacerbating the already tense situation.
Army and Paramilitary Forces Clash for Over Two Months
The ongoing battle between the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has persisted for over two months, leaving a trail of destruction in the capital and triggering widespread violence in Darfur. The conflict has forced more than 2.5 million people to flee their homes, creating a humanitarian crisis of significant proportions.
Air Raids, Ground Fighting, and Artillery Fire
Witnesses reported hearing the sound of army aircraft and anti-aircraft fire from the RSF in Omdurman early on Wednesday. Additionally, artillery fire from a base in north Omdurman and ground fighting in southern Khartoum added to the chaos and instability in the city.
Ceasefire Violations by Both Sides
Like previous truces, this ceasefire was not immune to violations from both factions. Late on Tuesday, both sides accused each other of causing a massive fire at the intelligence headquarters, located in a defense compound in central Khartoum that has been a battleground since the outbreak of violence on April 15.
International Efforts and Uncertain Peace Talks
Saudi Arabia and the United States have been actively involved in brokering multiple ceasefire deals. The Jeddah talks, where these truces have been negotiated, face the risk of adjournment if the warring factions fail to adhere to the ceasefire terms. Critics have expressed doubts about the effectiveness of these talks in resolving the conflict.
Conflict Originating from Political Transition Disputes
The conflict in Sudan arose due to disagreements surrounding internationally backed plans for a transition away from military rule following a coup in 2021. This violent upheaval comes four years after the ousting of long-ruling autocrat Omar al-Bashir during a popular uprising, further exacerbating the country’s fragile political situation.
Published in PakWeb, June 21st, 2023.
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