Sudan Army Declares "Khartoum is free" After Retaking Airport

TDT | Manama
Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan has declared that "Khartoum is free" following the army's successful recapture of Khartoum International Airport from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This marks a significant victory in the ongoing conflict that has gripped Sudan for nearly two years.

Al-Burhan made the statement from the presidential palace, which government forces reclaimed last week. This was his first time inside the palace since the conflict erupted in April 2023. The army's recent push has driven RSF fighters out of key positions in central Khartoum, with paramilitary forces retreating southward toward Jebel Awliya.

Military sources report that SAF troops have now secured both sides of the Manshiya Bridge over the Blue Nile, further limiting RSF movement in the capital. However, the Jebel Awliya Bridge remains under RSF control, providing a potential escape route for paramilitary fighters.

The Sudanese army has been steadily advancing, retaking several strongholds once occupied by the RSF. Despite these gains, analysts warn that the conflict is far from over. The RSF retains control over large areas in western Sudan, particularly in Darfur, and continues to receive external support.

The war, which has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and displaced over 12 million people, has plunged Sudan into one of the world's worst humanitarian crises. While the recapture of Khartoum’s airport is a symbolic and strategic win for the SAF, experts caution that lasting peace will require a comprehensive political solution.