Sudanese army launches airstrikes on RSF in El Fasher

March 15, 2024 (EL-FASHER) – In a significant escalation, the Sudanese army launched airstrikes on Friday targeting Rapid Support Forces (RSF) positions east of El Fasher, North Darfur’s capital.

Military sources informed Sudan Tribune that the airstrikes aimed to disrupt a large RSF contingent planning to enter the city centre and potentially overthrow the leadership of the Sixth Infantry Division.

Eyewitnesses reported witnessing military aircraft targeting RSF gatherings near the Jadid al-Sail area, the land port, the stock market, and several eastern neighbourhoods of El Fasher. Loud explosions and thick smoke columns followed the reported use of explosive barrels.

These developments come after the RSF lost control of Old Omdurman, including the Radio and Television Authority headquarters and several locations in western Omdurman’s Imbda locality, to the Sudanese army.

El Fasher has intermittently witnessed artillery exchanges between the army and the RSF, primarily concentrated in the city’s northeastern sectors.

The RSF reportedly seeks to seize control of El Fasher, which houses Darfur’s Sixth Infantry Division’s last remaining army stronghold. However, the city’s heavy army deployment has thus far thwarted their attempts.

Meanwhile, the Sudan Liberation Movements under Minni Arko Minawi, the Justice and Equality Movement led by Jibril Ibrahim, and a faction of the Sudan Liberation Forces have pledged to engage the RSF if they reach the centre of El Fasher.

However, the Liberation and Justice Party led by Al-Hadi Idris and the mainstream Sudan Liberation Forces under Al-Tahir Hajar maintain a neutral stance, withholding support from either party in the conflict.

The RSF currently controls the eastern and northern districts of El Fasher.

(ST)