Sudanese army regains strategic North Kordofan area

December 22, 2025 (EL OBEID) – The Sudanese army on Monday regained control of a strategic area in North Kordofan state following a violent battle against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

The clash follows a lull in ground operations in North Kordofan since early November, during which the RSF continued to target the road linking Er Rahad and El Obeid with drones to disrupt commercial traffic.

Military sources told Sudan Tribune that an army “mobile force” deployed southwest of Er Rahad and successfully recaptured the Alouba area. Pro-army platforms published video clips showing troops deployed in the town after expelling the RSF.

Securing Alouba is expected to enhance security in Er Rahad, eastern North Kordofan. This development directly impacts the stability of commercial and relief movement along the national highway connecting Tendelti, Um Rawaba, Er Rahad, and El Obeid—one of the state’s most vital arteries.

Furthermore, tightening control over Alouba limits RSF infiltration attempts from the Kazgeil area south of El Obeid. This strengthens the security cordons around the state capital and reduces potential threats to residential areas and supply lines.

In a simultaneous development, the RSF targeted Kadugli, the capital of South Kordofan state, with drone strikes.