Sudan army, SPLM-N clash in South Kordofan

January 13, 2025 (DILLING) – Fierce fighting broke out Monday between the Sudanese army and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N) in Dilling, South Kordofan state. The army claimed it wrested control of several areas from the rebels.

Since the conflict erupted between the army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) last April, the SPLM-N, led by Abdelaziz al-Hilu, has exploited the security vacuum to expand its territorial control in South Kordofan, saying they want to protect civilians.

Military sources told Sudan Tribune that the army’s 54th Infantry Brigade launched an offensive against SPLM-N positions around Dilling, retaking Karkaraia and Hajar al-Jawad, strategic locations on the road connecting Dilling to the state capital, Kadugli.

The sources said the army aims to secure the route between the two cities and break the siege on Dilling. Due to the ongoing conflict, the city has been effectively blockaded, with the SPLM-N controlling areas to the south and west and the RSF to the northeast.

SPLM-N spokesperson Sanaa Matar condemned the army’s offensive as “a violation of understandings to deliver humanitarian aid.” She said in a statement that the army attacked Hajar al-Jawad and Karkaraia, which houses an oil pumping station, early Monday.

Matar highlighted that aid deliveries were underway in Kadugli and Jild, with plans to expand to other areas, including those now under renewed army control.

The SPLM-N statement also listed previous attacks by the army in recent months, including airstrikes and ground offensives in various locations.