On Friday, General Abdel-Fattah Burhan, Sudan’s army leader, attended the funeral of a journalist killed in a drone strike. The attack, believed to have been launched by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), also killed soldiers and journalists from Sudanese state television.
Later that day, Sudan’s military regained control of the Republican Palace in Khartoum. This marked a significant development after nearly two years of fighting. The palace had been the last major stronghold of the RSF in the capital.
Addressing supporters in Gezira province, Burhan stated, “During this holy month, our forces are advancing steadily to liberate Sudan. We promise the Sudanese people this battle will continue. Our strength comes from you, the Sudanese people.”
Symbolic victory but war continues
The Republican Palace, surrounded by key government ministries, had served as a stronghold for the RSF. Its recapture is a symbolic victory for Sudan’s military, but the conflict is far from over.
The RSF still controls large parts of western Darfur and other regions. Burhan also offered condolences, saying, “We mourn with you and with ourselves. With God’s will and the sacrifices of these brave people, Sudan will soon be free of rebellion and those who wish harm to our people.”
Since the removal of President Omar al-Bashir in 2019, Sudan has faced ongoing instability. A short-lived transition to democracy ended when Burhan and RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo staged a military coup in 2021. Fighting between the RSF and Sudan’s military began in 2023.
Since early 2024, Burhan’s forces, including Sudan’s military and allied militias, have made key gains. They recaptured a major oil refinery north of Khartoum and advanced against RSF positions in the capital. The ongoing fighting has led to rising civilian casualties.
