dw.com
Sudanese Army Claims Full Control of Khartoum Amidst Ongoing Civil War
Sudan's army declared full control of Khartoum on Thursday, claiming victory over the RSF after recapturing the presidential palace; however, the civil war continues in other regions, displacing millions and causing widespread death, prompting increased US diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis.
- What are the underlying causes of the conflict between the Sudanese army and the RSF?
- The Sudanese army's victory in Khartoum marks a significant development in the ongoing civil war, but does not signal an end to the conflict. While government forces have made gains in Khartoum and central Sudan, RSF forces still hold substantial territory, notably in Darfur. The conflict's roots lie in the power struggle between General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and General Mohammed Dagalo following a 2021 coup, stemming from disagreements over the RSF's integration into the national army.
- What is the immediate impact of the Sudanese army's claimed victory in Khartoum on the ongoing civil war?
- The Sudanese army announced on Thursday the complete seizure of Khartoum from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary group, claiming the elimination of all RSF pockets in the capital. This follows the army's recapture of the presidential palace last week and the declaration of Khartoum as "free" by army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan on Wednesday. However, the conflict is far from over, with the RSF maintaining control over significant parts of the country.
- What are the potential long-term implications of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Sudan, and how might the international community respond?
- The US plans to increase diplomatic efforts to resolve the Sudanese conflict. The ongoing civil war has caused a devastating humanitarian crisis, displacing millions and leading to an estimated 60,000-150,000 deaths. The army's declared victory in Khartoum, while significant, does not address the broader conflict and the humanitarian catastrophe, highlighting the need for international intervention and a lasting peace agreement to address the root causes of this protracted crisis. The long-term implications are far-reaching, impacting regional stability and humanitarian aid efforts.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing emphasizes the army's success in recapturing Khartoum, presenting it as a major turning point. The headline and opening paragraphs focus on the army's announcements and actions, while the RSF's perspective and ongoing control of other areas are downplayed. This prioritization might lead readers to overestimate the extent of the army's victory and underestimate the conflict's ongoing nature.
Language Bias
The article uses strong language in describing the RSF, referring to them as a "terrorist militia." This is a loaded term that lacks neutrality and could influence readers' perception. More neutral alternatives might include "paramilitary force" or "rebel group." The army's actions are described as "successfully and forcibly cleansed," which is emotionally charged language. Alternatives might be "secured" or "brought under control.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the army's perspective and claims of victory, omitting detailed accounts from the RSF's perspective. The humanitarian crisis is mentioned, but lacks depth in describing the RSF's role in it or potential mitigating factors from their side. The article also doesn't explore potential underlying reasons for the RSF's resistance or their motivations beyond the stated refusal to integrate into the national army. This omission limits a complete understanding of the conflict's complexity.
False Dichotomy
The narrative presents a somewhat simplistic "army vs. RSF" dichotomy, overlooking the potential involvement of other actors or influencing factors in the conflict. The complex political and historical context of Sudan's transition is simplified.
Gender Bias
The article primarily focuses on male figures (generals, spokespersons) and lacks information on the experiences and perspectives of women affected by the conflict. There is no overt gender bias in language, but the lack of female voices is noteworthy.
Sustainable Development Goals
The ongoing civil war in Sudan, marked by intense fighting and displacement, severely undermines peace, justice, and the effective functioning of institutions. The conflict has led to a humanitarian crisis, causing immense suffering and instability. The power struggle between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces, and the resulting violence, directly contradicts the goals of establishing peaceful and inclusive societies, providing access to justice for all, and building strong and accountable institutions.