At least three people have died in Sudan’s capital, Khartoum, as the army and the infamous paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) engage in heavy fighting over the proposed transition to civilian rule. Videos circulating on social media show a civilian plane on fire at Khartoum airport. Saudi airline Saudia confirmed that its Airbus had been involved in an accident.
The RSF claims to control airports and other key locations, while the army disputes these claims and reports hitting RSF bases with jets. Civilians are seeking shelter from the ongoing conflict. A witness, speaking to the BBC through her sister in Kenya, stated that the shooting continues and people are remaining indoors, gripped by panic and fear.
The sudden clashes took residents by surprise, resulting in many being caught in transit with bridges and roads closed and several schools on lockdown. As the violence escalates, international concern grows, with both the US and Russian embassies urging a ceasefire and an end to the fighting.
The RSF alleges control of at least three airports, the army chief’s residence, the presidential palace, and, according to eyewitnesses, the state TV station. RSF commander Gen Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, also known as Hemedti, declared his intention to continue fighting until all army bases are captured.
Since a coup in October 2021, Sudan has been under the control of the Sovereign Council, led by Gen Abdel Fattah al-Burhan as president and Hemedti as vice-president. However, disagreements between the RSF and the national army over the timeline for integrating the paramilitary forces into the national army have stalled the transition to a civilian-led government.
The ongoing conflict has alarmed international and regional powers, who have called for de-escalation and a return to negotiations aimed at restoring civilian rule.
