Intense clashes in Sudan's Khartoum: Army, RSF struggle for al-Jili oil refinery

Fierce battles have been reported in the Sudanese capital, Khartoum, as the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) clash near the strategically significant al-Jili oil refinery.

According to eyewitnesses, plumes of smoke have engulfed the city, with social media footage showing army forces taking control of key areas, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

"It is clear that the army is attempting to regain control, pushing forward in a multi-fronted operation towards the refinery," said Hiba Morgan from Al Jazeera's Khartoum bureau.

Additionally, fighting has erupted in the northwestern city of el-Fasher, following a 48-hour ultimatum issued by the RSF for the Sudanese army to evacuate the area. When the deadline expired, the army launched air strikes on RSF positions, leading to further clashes.

The conflict in Sudan, which began in April 2023, has resulted in the displacement of approximately 12 million people. Both the RSF and the Sudanese army have been accused of atrocities, including the targeting of civilians and indiscriminate shelling of residential areas. According to the UNHCR, over 1 million people have fled to neighbouring South Sudan, citing the war as a humanitarian concern.

In a separate development, the South Sudanese government has imposed a 30-day ban on social media platforms, including Facebook and TikTok, in response to videos of alleged killings of South Sudanese nationals in Sudan's Gezira state. The move follows a wave of unrest in South Sudan, which left at least 16 people dead.

The decision to restrict internet access has been met with criticism, with some questioning the government's motives and impact on free speech. The suspension takes effect at midnight, with internet service providers complying with the order.

By Aghakazim Guliyev