Sudan’s army chief has announced that Khartoum is now "free," claiming his forces have regained control of the capital after nearly two years of intense fighting. General Abdel Fattah al Burhan made the declaration as the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) continue their battle against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), who still hold significant power in other parts of the country.
In a recent video shared on social media, General Burhan was seen walking through the presidential palace, which was captured last week—a key milestone in the ongoing conflict. "Khartoum is now free. It’s over. Khartoum is free. Free. Free," he exclaimed to his troops.
The SAF has reported significant victories in recent days, including the recapture of the capital’s airport and a crucial RSF base. The general celebrated these achievements by kissing the ground upon arriving at the airport by helicopter. Drone footage released by the army showed what they claimed were RSF forces retreating across the Nile.
The conflict began in April 2023 as Sudan was attempting to transition to a democratic government. The fighting has created a humanitarian crisis, with the United Nations estimating that at least 28,000 people have died, and millions have been displaced. The war has split the country into rival zones of control, complicating efforts for peace.
While the SAF has made recent gains in central Sudan, the RSF remains entrenched in the western regions of the country. Conditions are dire, with famine and disease affecting many areas. The UN has labeled the situation as the world’s largest humanitarian crisis, with over 12.8 million people displaced—more than a fifth of Sudan’s population.
The army’s control of Khartoum’s airport may now facilitate the delivery of much-needed aid to the affected regions. As the situation continues to evolve, the people of Sudan are left hoping for a resolution to the violence that has disrupted their lives for far too long.