The commander of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, said his forces are positioned on the outskirts of Omdurman, signaling what he described as imminent military developments in the conflict with forces aligned with General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan.
Speaking during a briefing to RSF officers in Nyala on Wednesday, Dagalo said “good news is forthcoming,” while reiterating his claim that the war was “ignited by the Muslim Brotherhood.” He added that his forces are working to end the conflict “today rather than tomorrow,” arguing that pursuing peace “is not a sign of weakness.”
Dagalo also said RSF ranks have expanded significantly since the outbreak of fighting in April 2023, claiming the force has grown from around 140,000 personnel to 450,000 registered fighters, according to a census committee.
He linked the formation of the so-called Government of Peace and Unity to what he described as public demand for services in areas outside central government control, saying the administration was established to address basic needs.
On the military front, Dagalo asserted that RSF units are advancing toward the capital region, claiming they are on the outskirts of Omdurman and “continuing the path of liberating Sudan.” He dismissed General al-Burhan’s army as no longer a functioning national force, describing it instead as “mercenaries and terrorist battalions” — claims that could not be independently verified.
Dagalo further alleged that elements of the Islamic Movement are seeking to prolong the war until 2033, while declaring that his forces are prepared for a prolonged conflict “until 2040.” He invited civilians to return to Khartoum, claiming the city is largely empty aside from limited groups of young men — an assertion also unverified.
Despite the escalation rhetoric, Dagalo said RSF operations would avoid targeting civilians, including women and children, and would focus instead on “leaders of the war.” He pledged compensation for citizens affected by disruptions to trade and agriculture in RSF-held areas.
He also said medical support for wounded fighters remains a priority, noting the arrival of specialized teams, and promised continued assistance to the families of those killed in the conflict.
The war in Sudan, which erupted in April 2023 between the RSF and forces loyal to General al-Burhan, has devastated large parts of the country, displaced millions, and triggered a deep humanitarian crisis.
