Latest Military Developments in Sudan (Map)

Sudan has once again returned to global headlines following intense and bloody clashes in Al-Fashir, the capital of North Darfur. While many have asked what’s happening in Sudan. The answer lies not in recent weeks but in the long-standing instability and unresolved crises that have plagued the country for years, occasionally erupting into headline news.

In brief, Omar al-Bashir was ousted in April 2019 after 30 years in power during what were described as popular protests. The military took control and transferred authority to a transitional government led by Abdalla Hamdok. Two years later, in October 2021, the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) under Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) led by Hemetti staged a coup against the transitional government and seized full control. Another two years later, in April 2023, tensions between Burhan and Hemetti escalated, leading Hemetti to rebel against Burhan and take control of parts of Sudan. Since then, sporadic clashes between SAF and RSF have continued across the country.

For a deeper understanding of Sudan’s situation, read this article published two years ago: Understanding Warring Parties In Sudan; Reviewing Latest Field Situation (Map)

On the ground, the latest battles center around Al-Fashir, the capital of North Darfur in southwestern Sudan, which was recently captured by RSF forces after months of siege. Al-Fashir was the last stronghold of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) in Darfur. Over the past two years, RSF repeatedly attempted to seize the city but were repelled each time. The final takeover and the videos released from the scene point to a brutal massacre. It is estimated that at least 2,500 civilians were executed or killed by RSF fighters during the capture of Al-Fashir.