Sudan Armed Forces dismantles RSF stranglehold in capital Khartoum
With the presidential palace in central Khartoum now under the military’s control, the SAF is advancing into long-occupied district
The Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) has embarked on a solid campaign to reclaim Sudan’s capital city Khartoum, from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
On Wednesday, this offensive led to the systematic and strategic liberation of key facilities military bases, public institutions, and neighborhoods where civilians had been trapped under long and torturous occupation. A huge milestone in this mission was the raising of the Sudanese flag by two SAF soldiers on the tarmac of Khartoum International Airport, an area seized by RSF paramilitary forces nearly two years ago.
With the presidential palace in central Khartoum now under the military’s control, the SAF is advancing into long-occupied districts, where many civilians remain stranded. These collective efforts aim to restore governance and re-establish authority over critical institutions. The RSF had reportedly restricted civilian movement throughout their two-year occupation, intensifying the humanitarian crisis.
As the SAF continues its progress, scenes of celebration are unfolding across downtown Khartoum, reflecting the relief and support of residents. From a strategic perspective, SAF troops bypassed the Jebel Aulia Bridge, isolating RSF units in southern Khartoum and severing their routes to western Sudan. Along the White Nile and Blue Nile axes, substantial gains have been made, including the liberation of the Al Bageir military base. Soldiers entering central Khartoum have faced minimal resistance, boosting morale among civilians.
Critical installations like the Air Defense Headquarters have been reclaimed, further destabilizing RSF operations. Meanwhile, RSF forces are retreating en masse across the Jebel Aulia Bridge toward the western bank of the White Nile, with SAF artillery and airstrikes targeting their convoys and adding pressure on their withdrawal.
Public support for the SAF remains steadfast in liberated zones throughout the capital. Disturbing reports have surfaced regarding malnutrition and abuse among RSF captives, highlighting the severe humanitarian toll of the conflict. Over the past two years, thousands of RSF captives in Khartoum have reportedly succumbed to mistreatment and torture.
The RSF’s grip in Khartoum has effectively crumbled, with troops encircled, surrendering, or fleeing. Confirmed reports show SAF forces advancing along the southeastern part of the city, near the Blue Nile, while local sources contacted by Africa Security Analysis indicate that central Khartoum has been fully secured. Efforts to stabilize and clear the city are progressing rapidly.
As such RSF under Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo has carried out what the United Nations describe as wanton atrocities against civilians and the news of their disintegration is welcome particularly for regional players, donor agencies and even international community.
