A key adviser to Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) resigned on Friday, citing his opposition to the RSF’s violent actions against civilians, particularly in North Darfur and Al-Jazirah state. Ayub Osman Nahar condemned the RSF for its use of artillery and drones against civilian targets, including the destruction of villages. The resignation occurred as the Sudanese army made notable strides in its battle with the RSF, breaking a siege on the General Command headquarters and regaining control of a vital oil refinery.
The Sudanese army reported that it had successfully linked forces from northern Khartoum with units inside the General Command, ending the RSF’s encirclement of this key military site. This victory provides the army with vital supply routes and reinforcements. Additionally, the army confirmed it had retaken the Al-Jaili oil refinery, which had been under RSF control since the conflict’s early days.
Nahar’s resignation follows growing criticism of the RSF’s conduct, including allegations of war crimes and systematic attacks on civilians in regions such as Darfur. The RSF has consistently denied these accusations. Nahar, who had previously called for investigations into these violations, stated that he could no longer be part of a group committing such crimes.
The conflict, which began in April 2023, has escalated into a devastating war between the army and the RSF, causing immense displacement and a humanitarian crisis. Over 1.5 million people have fled Sudan, and millions more are internally displaced.
In the latest developments, the Sudanese army successfully repelled an RSF attack on El Fasher, North Darfur, further intensifying the ongoing military struggle. Despite the army’s advances, RSF fighters continue to claim control of strategic locations, including parts of Khartoum and its surroundings.