The Sudanese army has successfully broken a nearly two-year siege imposed by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on the southern city of el-Obeid. This breakthrough occurred just hours after the RSF signed a political agreement in Nairobi, Kenya, to establish a rival government in territories under its control.
Since April 2023, the army and RSF have been engaged in intense conflict, with both sides vying for control over the country. The war has led to tens of thousands of deaths and displaced millions. The army holds control over the north and east of Sudan, while the RSF controls most of Darfur in the west and parts of the south.
El-Obeid, the capital of North Kordofan state, holds strategic significance as a key link between Khartoum and Darfur. The army’s recent advance marks a series of successes, including the recapture of areas in Khartoum. Jubilation erupted in el-Obeid as Sudanese soldiers entered the city.
Military spokesperson Nabil Abdallah confirmed the army’s victory, reporting the destruction of RSF units. Finance Minister Jibril Ibrahim described the army’s move as a major step toward ending the RSF siege on el-Fasher, North Darfur’s capital, and facilitating humanitarian aid to Kordofan.
Civil society activist Dallia Abdlemoniem highlighted the significance of the city’s recapture, noting that the RSF had effectively held civilians captive in el-Obeid for almost two years. Conditions had been dire, with scarce medical and food supplies exacerbating the risk of famine. Many hope the lifting of the siege will open the door for aid to reach the region.
Ahmed Hussein, a local trader in el-Obeid, expressed relief, stating that the end of the siege would bring much-needed life back to the city. Abdlemoniem also emphasized the army’s efforts to advance westward, where the RSF is predominantly located.
Both the army and RSF have faced accusations of war crimes and atrocities against civilians, with the RSF specifically accused of committing genocide in Darfur. Both groups have denied these allegations.
Sudan’s Foreign Minister Ali Youssef reiterated that his government would not accept any recognition of a parallel government, as proposed by the RSF and its allies. Sudan had previously warned of potential retaliatory measures against Kenya, where the RSF signed its political charter. Kenya’s foreign ministry responded, asserting its position as a neutral platform for dialogue between the conflicting parties.