Media: Sudanese forces secure full control of Khartoum PHOTO

The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) have declared complete control over the capital, Khartoum, following intense military operations against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

The announcement of the capital's liberation was made by Sudanese Army Commander Abdel Fattah al-Burhan on March 27, during his visit to the Republican Palace, Caliber.Az reports, citing Al Arabiya.

Al-Burhan confirmed that Khartoum is now free from RSF presence, signaling a significant shift in the conflict that has engulfed Sudan since April 2023.

Sudan’s Minister of Information, Khaled al-Aiser, described the liberation of Khartoum as a turning point in the ongoing military operations. "The liberation of Khartoum opens the door to the liberation of all of Sudan," he emphasized. Al-Aiser further confirmed that the RSF's presence in Khartoum, and its surrounding areas, had been fully eradicated, extending as far north as Egypt and east to Eritrea. The RSF's remaining forces in Darfur have been confined to a few isolated areas.

In recognition of international support, Al-Aiser thanked Saudi Arabia for its continued humanitarian assistance. "Saudi Arabia provided unconditional support for peace efforts," he stated.

However, the RSF rejected claims of defeat, insisting in a statement released Thursday that it had not lost any battles but had repositioned its forces to open new battlefronts. "This strategic repositioning ensures the achievement of our military objectives and will ultimately lead to the resolution of this conflict," the RSF asserted.

The key turning point in the fighting came last week during the battle for the Republican Palace, which allowed the SAF to gain control of vital government institutions and sovereign sites within the city. In addition to securing the palace, the SAF also seized Tuti Island, which lies at the convergence of the Blue and White Nile rivers.

The conflict, which has now lasted over a year, has seen heavy fighting throughout Khartoum, leading to widespread destruction. The recent victories have allowed many roads in the capital to be reopened to pedestrians and vehicles, though columns of smoke continue to rise from the former RSF strongholds.

 By Khagan Isayev