Sudanese Army Retakes Strategic Khor Hassan From RSF Allies

The Sudanese army announced Friday it has retaken Khor Hassan, a strategic town in southeastern Blue Nile state, from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This victory marks a significant shift in the civil war that has engulfed the nation for over three years.

Blue Nile has emerged as a critical flashpoint due to its geography. Controlling this region grants forces a gateway to central Sudan and access to vital infrastructure, including the Al-Roseires Dam.

The town borders Ethiopia, a nation the Sudanese government accuses of backing the RSF alongside the United Arab Emirates. Both nations firmly deny these allegations.

Prior to this recapture, the RSF held Khor Hassan with support from its ally, the Sudan People's Liberation Movement-North. The army stated it inflicted heavy losses on RSF personnel and military equipment during the operation.

According to the Sudan Tribune, seizing Khor Hassan is a key step in the army's broader strategy to retake Kurmuk. Kurmuk serves as a vital corridor for cross-border trade and sits near the Ethiopian frontier.

Al Jazeera's Hiba Morgan reported Saturday that Kurmuk functions as a garrison town. The RSF has used it as a launchpad to seize additional territory and a route to resupply its forces.

Morgan emphasized the battle's significance. The outcome will determine if the RSF can maintain its supply lines along the border. She also noted the state's wealth in natural resources, particularly gold.

The conflict erupted in April 2023 following a power struggle between Abdel Fattah al-Burhan of the national army and Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, who commands the RSF.

The human cost remains staggering. Since the war began, more than 150,000 people have died, and over 12 million have been displaced from their homes.