Sudan's armed forces assert dominance over Souq Libya, a critical commercial hub in Omdurman, amid ongoing conflict.
Sudan's Army Claims Critical Victory Yet Emphasizes Ongoing Struggle
In a **significant development** in the ongoing conflict, the Republic of Sudan's military has declared it has seized control of a vital market—**Souq Libya**—in Omdurman, the bustling twin city of Khartoum. This latest victory is part of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) continuing offensive against the paramilitary group, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
Sudan's Military Leadership Speaks Out
Chief of the Sudanese Armed Forces, **Abdel Fattah al-Burhan**, addressed the nation on Saturday, stating, “The joy of victory will not be complete until the last rebel is eliminated in the last corner of Sudan’s land.” His speech underscores the long and arduous road ahead for the SAF, alongside reflecting the ongoing humanitarian crisis that has engulfed the nation throughout this **two-year devastating war**.
Al-Burhan's remarks coincided with the announcement of the military's latest gain, which comes shortly after the SAF captured **most of Khartoum** itself, marking what some analysts believe could be a turning point in the conflict. This war has tragically led to what the **African Union** calls the **world’s largest humanitarian crisis**, leaving millions displaced and in dire need of assistance. [Read more here](https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/2/11/sudan-scene-of-worlds-worst-humanitarian-crisis-african-union).
Control Over Key Commercial Assets
According to the military's statement, forces are now firmly in control of Souq Libya, a **major commercial hub**, having recovered weapons and equipment left behind by the fleeing RSF. This market is pivotal to the local economy, and its recapture further strengthens the army's grip on Omdurman, a city that also houses two significant military bases.
The Bigger Picture: Control and Conflict
The SAF appears determined to assert authority across the entire **Khartoum metropolitan area**, which encompasses Khartoum, Omdurman, and Bahri, all interconnected by the lifeblood of the **River Nile**. Yet, the RSF remains a formidable opponent, still holding onto substantial territory and offering little public commentary regarding their setbacks in Omdurman.
Speaking during a celebratory speech for **Eid al-Fitr**, al-Burhan further emphasized the sacrifices made by soldiers, declaring, “We will not compromise or negotiate. Militias must lay down their weapons.” His rhetoric paints a picture of unwavering resolve amidst a harrowing backdrop of violence and instability.
كلمة رئيس مجلس السيادة القائد العام للقوات المسحلة الفريق أول الركن عبد الفتاح البرهان بمناسبة عيد الفطر المُبارك#سونا #السودان pic.twitter.com/cgXiUh3R24
— SUDAN News Agency (SUNA) 🇸🇩 (@SUNA_AGENCY) March 29, 2025
Translation: Speech by the Chairman of the Sovereignty Council, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Lieutenant General Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, on the occasion of Eid al-Fitr.
The Ongoing Conflict: A Drawn-Out Struggle
Despite these recent gains, the path to peace appears fraught with challenges. Clashes persist in various regions, including **Darfur** and **Kordofan**, where fierce fighting continues. Each faction remains engaged, buoyed by significant territorial control and the backing of **regional allies**, yet progress towards a political resolution remains elusive.
Recent accusations have surfaced against the **United Arab Emirates** for allegedly backing the RSF, a charge corroborated by various international observers and U.S. lawmakers. The **International Court of Justice** has agreed to hear Sudan's proposal for emergency measures against the UAE. This case highlights the growing complexity of international influence in the region and its implications on Sudan's integrity and peace prospects. [Learn more here](https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/1/10/sudan-rsf-tried-to-polish-its-image-but-its-crimes-are-being-recognised).
Humanitarian Impact of the Conflict
The toll of this conflict mirrors a **catastrophic humanitarian disaster**, uprooting over **12 million Sudanese** and plunging nearly half of the nation’s 50 million population into acute hunger. A study conducted has estimated that as many as **61,000 individuals** may have lost their lives in the initial 14 months of conflict in just Khartoum state.
In a glimmer of hope amid despair, Al Jazeera's Arabic branch reported that the army successfully rescued hundreds of civilian and military prisoners previously held by the RSF. Under dire conditions that saw **over 4,700 prisoners** suffer from malnutrition and neglect, this operation stands as a testament to ongoing resilience amidst chaos.
The Future of Sudan: Questions Remain
While the army’s recent claims of victory may boost morale, the **struggle for control** and peace in Sudan is evidently far from over. With both sides holding onto their respective areas and no peace process in sight, the nation's fate remains a poignant question mark. The memories of previous upheavals linger, and the people of Sudan yearn for not just victory on the battlefield but a lasting **peaceful resolution** that respects their dignity and rights.
