This week has seen the capital of Sudan, Khartoum transform into the epicentre of a brutal armed conflict between the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the army. Both have fought fiercely and set up checkpoints, bringing about mass shortages of power supplies, water and shortages of food. Moreover, a soaring death toll.
Khartoum, a bustling city of five million residents and a vibrant metropolis only a few days ago, has witnessed devastating conditions for civilians and in effect, triggered a mass exodus. Air strikes and artillery have fractured the heart of Khartoum. However, fleeing the city has been highly dangerous for many residents who report cars being vandalised, looting occurring and road blocks being set up around the city. The majority of residence have escaped to Egypt, many very tragically having to leave loved ones behind.
Resident of the city, Dallia Mohamed Abdelmoniem, said the “empty frightened streets” made Khartoum feel like a ghost town, with people “huddled in their houses not knowing what’s going to happen next”.
Central Khartoum (south of the Blue Nile) is densely populated, as is Khartoum North where fighting is also taking place. Alarmingly, most check points have been stationed around residential areas.
Furthermore, as Eid al-Fitr began on Friday morning, residents explained how the 72 hour truce to mark the holiday had failed to materialise. Mahsin Dohab, who lives in eastern Khartoum, told reporters, “People cannot go to prayers due to heavy artillery and gunfire… We’re heartbroken, all of us”.
According to the World Health Organisation figures, more than 3,500 people have been injured since the conflict began and only 23 of the 78 hospitals and medical centres in and around Khartoum have remained operational. In addition, five ambulance crews have been attacked during their duties.
May Allah bring peace to the streets of Sudan.
