Sudan’s War Escalates as RSF Captures Darfur, Threatening Division

The conflict in Sudan has intensified dramatically as the paramilitary group, the **Rapid Support Forces (RSF)**, has successfully seized control of the entire **Darfur** region. This significant shift comes after the RSF ousted the **Sudanese Army** from its final stronghold in the area, raising concerns that the country may face further fragmentation. The ongoing war, which has persisted for two years, has already claimed over **40,000 lives** and displaced more than **14 million people**, resulting in what many experts describe as the world’s most severe humanitarian crisis.

The RSF’s capture of **el-Fasher**, the provincial capital of **North Darfur**, has led to fears reminiscent of the past when **South Sudan** gained independence in **2011** following years of civil strife. The RSF, led by **Gen. Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo**, widely known as **Hemedti**, has emerged as a central player in Sudan’s tumultuous political landscape. This paramilitary force originated from the infamous **Janjaweed** militia, which had been involved in violent campaigns against non-Arab tribes in Darfur since the early 2000s.

Gen. Dagalo, who was appointed by former President **Omar al-Bashir**, has capitalized on his roots in the region and has expanded his influence through local alliances and substantial financial backing derived from gold mining operations. Under his leadership, the RSF has been implicated in numerous human rights violations, including forced displacement and mass killings, leading to accusations of genocide by the **International Criminal Court**.

The RSF’s rise to power has not only altered the dynamics of the conflict but has also positioned Dagalo as a significant power broker within Sudan. Following the overthrow of al-Bashir in **April 2019**, Dagalo played a role in a brief transitional government before a military coup solidified his position against **Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan**, the head of the Sudanese Army. This ongoing power struggle has further exacerbated the instability in Sudan, with both leaders seeking support from regional allies and foreign fighters.

As the RSF solidifies its control in Darfur, accusations have surfaced regarding external support for the group. The Sudanese Army has alleged that the **United Arab Emirates** has provided foreign fighters to bolster the RSF, prompting legal action in the **International Court of Justice**. The UAE has dismissed these allegations as unfounded. In addition, there are claims that **Khalifa Haftar**, a Libyan military leader, has supplied weapons and resources to the RSF.

The RSF’s operations have extended beyond Sudan, with its forces participating in conflicts in **Yemen** and **Libya**, backed by various foreign powers. These engagements have further entrenched Dagalo’s financial network, making the RSF a key player in both regional and international contexts. This situation is compounded by the ongoing humanitarian crisis, which has seen widespread starvation and displacement throughout Sudan, particularly in areas affected by the conflict.

In light of these developments, Dagalo has announced plans to establish a rival government to oversee the regions under RSF control. This declaration, combined with the recent capture of el-Fasher, poses a significant threat to Sudan’s territorial integrity, with implications that could reverberate throughout the region.

While the RSF has faced significant military challenges, including a devastating defeat in **Khartoum** earlier this year, it has managed to regroup and form new alliances. The potential for further military expansion looms large, as both Dagalo and Burhan remain entrenched in their positions, vying for supremacy in a conflict that shows no signs of abating.

As Sudan marks two years of ongoing warfare, the international community watches closely, grappling with the complex realities on the ground and the dire humanitarian consequences of a fractured nation. The situation remains fluid, with the RSF’s recent gains highlighting the precarious state of stability in Sudan and the pressing need for a resolution to the conflict.