The Sudanese army has seized control of Wad Madani, a strategic city in central Sudan, in a major victory over the Rapid Support Forces, RSF, in the nearly two-year-long conflict that has ravaged the nation.
Wad Madani, the capital of Gezira State, is a vital transportation hub located 140 km (87 miles) south of Khartoum. Its location connects major supply routes across Sudan, making it a critical asset in the war.
Social media videos showed jubilant residents celebrating as Sudanese soldiers entered the city, marking one of the army’s most significant triumphs since the war began in April 2023.
RSF leader General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, commonly known as Hemedti, admitted the loss in an audio statement. He attributed the defeat to the army’s superior air capabilities, including the use of Iranian-made drones.
Despite the setback, Hemedti pledged to continue fighting, stating, “We are prepared to wage war for decades if necessary.”
The conflict, which began as a power struggle between RSF and the Sudanese army, has plunged Sudan into a humanitarian catastrophe.
Tens of thousands have died in the fighting, with over nine million people forced from their homes and nearly half the population—24.6 million people—requiring urgent food assistance, according to humanitarian agencies.
While RSF retains control of western Darfur and parts of southern Sudan, the army dominates the north, east, and parts of Khartoum.
Earlier this month, the United States imposed sanctions on Hemedti and RSF, accusing them of committing genocide and systemic atrocities against civilians. The sanctions are part of broader international efforts to hold parties accountable and push for peace in Sudan.
