Sudan’s army vacates el-Fasher base as Burhan vows retaliation for civilian killings

Conflict in Sudan: Tactical Withdrawal in El-Fasher

General Abdel-Fattah Burhan, the military chief of Sudan, announced the decision to withdraw from the city of el-Fasher due to the ongoing conflict with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The withdrawal aimed to protect civilians from what was described as systematic destruction and killing .

The decision followed reports that RSF fighters had taken control of a significant army base, marking a pivotal moment in the conflict that has affected Sudan since April 2023. Burhan expressed intentions to retaliate against the RSF for alleged crimes across the country.

El-Fasher, the capital of North Darfur , has been under siege by RSF forces for over a year. Humanitarian groups estimate that over 250,000 people , including many children, are trapped with limited access to essential resources. Recent fighting has resulted in civilian casualties and damage to infrastructure.

Although the Sudanese military has not officially confirmed the loss of the base, reports indicate a strategic retreat to secondary defensive positions. Analysts view this as a tactical setback, underscoring the resource challenges faced by Sudan's armed forces.

The conflict began in April 2023 due to escalating tensions between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the RSF, leading to widespread humanitarian issues, including famine risks and the displacement of over 8 million people .

Despite the critical situation, international diplomatic efforts have been limited. General Burhan criticized the global community for its perceived inaction amid ongoing crimes.

As the situation in el-Fasher remains dire, humanitarian access is severely restricted. The ongoing conflict, coupled with economic challenges, poses a risk of further national fragmentation and ethnic division in Sudan.

Based on reporting by Africanews.