In a continuation of attacks on civilians, warplanes under the control of Sudan’s “hostage” army (SAF) and Islamic Movement-linked jihadists carried out a series of airstrikes on Monday in the Mallit area of North Darfur State, according to a statement from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
The RSF reported that the SAF’s airstrikes targeted populated neighborhoods and water stations, resulting in dozens of civilian casualties, including women and children. Rescue operations for the wounded are still ongoing, with initial statistics indicating significant loss of life and injuries.
The timing of these airstrikes coincides with ongoing talks in Geneva, which the RSF says exposes the SAF’s leadership as being beholden to the agenda of Islamic Movement jihadists.
The RSF alleges that these attacks are part of a strategy by the Islamic Movement to maintain control over the army, which they consider their only means of retaining power over Sudan.
In a strongly worded condemnation, the RSF accused SAF leaders and their allies of committing barbaric acts in violation of international laws and the Geneva Conventions.
The Sudanese group called on the international and regional communities to hold General al-Burhan’s SAF accountable for these continued assaults on civilians.
The RSF said General “Burhan’s gang” and the “terrorist brigades” operating out of Port Sudan, managing the war from there, are killing citizens, and destroying the country’s infrastructure.
Increasing influence of the Islamist movement within the SAF and current military leadership’s desire to keep the war going to cover up the crimes of their corrupt regime is concerning, RSF said.
The group vowed to take “advanced positions” to dismantle these groups, liberate the army from terrorist influence, and restore it to a professional force that serves the people without political interference.
