Key Players in the Ongoing Conflict in Sudan
The conflict in Sudan involves the Sudanese Armed Forces led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and the Rapid Support Forces commanded by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo. Their power struggle, exacerbated by recent military advancements and heavy ethnically-targeted violence, has displaced millions and reignited humanitarian crises across the nation.
Recent developments in Sudan’s ongoing conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have intensified, notably with the SAF seizing full control of the Presidential Palace in Khartoum. This conflict, characterized by ethnically-targeted violence and mass displacement, is rooted in the power struggle between these factions following their joint efforts to overthrow President Omar Hassan al-Bashir in 2019 and a subsequent civilian-led government in 2021.
The Sudanese Armed Forces, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, initially possessed an advantage due to their larger troop numbers, advanced weaponry, and fighter jets. Historically, they have been a significant power in Sudan, with Burhan gaining prominence during his military career that commenced in the 1960s. However, the army has historically relied on allied militias, such as those that evolved into the RSF, to carry out operations. Reports indicate that the army has faced accusations of civilian casualties due to indiscriminate airstrikes and shelling, which they have largely denied.
On the other hand, the RSF is commanded by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, whose force was estimated at around 100,000 personnel prior to the onset of the conflict. Hemedti’s rise to power began in Darfur where he initially took up arms after a personal tragedy. His forces, notorious for their ruthlessness, have a history of involvement in suppressing rebellions and have garnered both military and economic power over the years. Despite being accused of ethnic violence and atrocities, the RSF has continually denied these allegations.
The RSF’s military tactics have proven effective in urban warfare, allowing them to capture strategic positions against the SAF. Furthermore, Hemedti has secured significant alliances, particularly with the United Arab Emirates, although this relationship has raised concerns regarding arms shipments. The conflict has drawn international scrutiny, and both leaders have faced sanctions from the United States for their roles in perpetuating violence and humanitarian crises in Sudan.
In summary, the conflict in Sudan involves two primary factions: the Sudanese Armed Forces, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the Rapid Support Forces, commanded by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo. Both groups have historical ties to violent events in Sudan, fueling their ongoing battle for power, leading to devastating consequences for the civilian population and deepening humanitarian crises.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
