The Sudanese Armed Forces announced on Monday that they have contacted representatives of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in the country, with intentions to hand over members of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) who have been detained.
In a formal statement, the military emphasized that this decision aligns with “international humanitarian law and the customs of war.” They also mentioned that the transfer would be made in Omdurman, pending a response from the international organization representatives whom they had reached out to on August 28th.
Further, the Sudanese Armed Forces pointed out that arrangements are underway to also release another group, comprising of two hundred rebels from the RSF, in coordination with ICRC representatives.
Internal Tensions Emerge Between Leading Figures
Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, also known as Hemeti, the leader of the RSF, declared his allegiance by stating, “I am not against the army, and no patriotic individual would act against it.” Hemeti further accused the Commander of the Sudanese Army, Lt. Gen. Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, of instigating conflict by attacking the RSF headquarters.
He added, “We never betrayed our agreements, but al-Burhan accused us of treachery. The army initiated the attack and forced us into this war. The strength of the RSF continues to grow.”
Earlier in the day, the RSF had reported shooting down a military aircraft, marking the second time in the region of Abu Hamamah south of Khartoum.
Widespread Violence Strains Capital
Violent confrontations between the Sudanese Army and the RSF have persisted for over four months, mostly centered around the capital, Khartoum. These skirmishes have resulted in hundreds of casualties, including civilian injuries.
Efforts to mediate the conflict, involving various Arab, African, and international intermediaries, have been underway in attempts to establish a lasting ceasefire in Sudan. However, these endeavors have yet to produce a permanent halt to the ongoing fighting.
The ongoing conflict between the Sudanese Army and the Rapid Support Forces has been a significant cause for concern both nationally and internationally.
The recent announcement of detainees being handed over to the International Red Cross is a notable development in this prolonged and complex situation.
