Sudan violence escalates as army, RSF clash across Kordofan PHOTO / VIDEO

Fierce fighting continues across Sudan on November 19, with both the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) claiming territorial gains.

In the north-eastern part of White, and surrounding western and southern areas of the city in North Kordofan state, a cautious calm has been reported following heavy clashes.

The Sudanese army, supported by joint forces and reinforcement battalions, has reportedly advanced around the town of Bara east of White, moving westwards into areas held by the RSF.

Military sources told Al Arabiya and Al Hadath that the army’s capture of Abu Sunun and Abu Qoud west of White has expanded the security perimeter around North Kordofan’s capital, providing its forces with additional space to manoeuvre and reposition. Sources also reported significant RSF losses in the Bara and western White sectors, including the death of the RSF operations and control commander during yesterday’s battles.

Meanwhile, in West Kordofan state, the RSF has continued sustained artillery bombardments on the 22nd Army Division headquarters in the city of Al-Babusah, while reinforcing its forces in an apparent attempt to seize control of the city.

Earlier, the Sudanese army said its troops had made “qualitative progress” across all Kordofan fronts, securing key positions and redeploying according to a pre-planned strategy after inflicting losses on RSF units. In contrast, the RSF claims to have advanced in western White and asserted control over most of Kordofan, signalling its intention to remove the army entirely from the region.

The European Union has also raised alarm over human rights abuses in Sudan, accusing the RSF of widespread sexual violence in El Fasher. The EU described the violations against civilians as “horrific” and called on external parties to stop arming the warring factions, expand the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court, and impose a comprehensive arms embargo to end impunity.

Following the EU’s lead, the United Kingdom announced plans to impose sanctions on Sudan over human rights violations. Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper warned that the country is experiencing the worst humanitarian crisis of the 21st century, criticising the RSF for refusing to guarantee safe corridors for aid delivery to El Fasher.

By Aghakazim Guliyev