For the past year, Sudan has been ravaged by clashes between its army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This conflict has not only devastated the nation but also reignited ethnically-targeted violence in Darfur, leading to the displacement of millions.
Here are key facts about these factions and their roles in Sudan’s recent turmoil:
The Army:
Led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, Sudan’s armed forces initially possessed the advantage on paper due to their larger troop numbers, heavy weaponry, and fighter jets. This institution, deeply entrenched in Sudanese power structures for decades, has frequently delegated fighting responsibilities to allied groups across the country.
General Burhan, born in a village near Khartoum, has spent his entire career within the military establishment. Under the regime of former President Omar Hassan al-Bashir, Burhan served in Darfur and cultivated ties with Gulf states, facilitating Sudanese involvement in conflicts such as the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen.
Following Bashir’s ousting, Burhan emerged as a pivotal figure in Sudan’s political landscape. Despite initial setbacks against the RSF, particularly in urban areas like the capital Khartoum, the army has recently regained some ground, supported by foreign powers like Egypt and equipped with Iranian-made drones.
However, accusations of indiscriminate violence against civilians, including shelling and airstrikes, have tarnished the army’s reputation, despite its denial of these claims.
The RSF:
Commanded by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, the RSF emerged from Darfur’s tumultuous history. Dagalo turned to arms after his family suffered a brutal attack, eventually leading militias in the government’s campaign against Darfur rebels in the early 2000s.
Under Bashir’s patronage, the RSF gained official recognition as a military force and expanded its influence, particularly in economic sectors like gold mining and infrastructure.
Unlike the conventional army, the RSF’s strength lies in its adaptability and guerrilla tactics, allowing it to outmaneuver traditional military forces. However, allegations of ethnically-targeted violence in Darfur have marred its reputation, despite denials from RSF leadership.
The RSF’s most significant ally has been the United Arab Emirates, though reports of arms shipments from the UAE have been denied.
In summary, the conflict between Sudan’s army and the RSF stems from their competing interests in Sudan’s political transition. While the army boasts superior firepower, the RSF’s agility and tactics have made it a formidable opponent, exacerbating the country’s already dire humanitarian situation.
