Military escalation around Al-Obeid and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Darfur

The Sudanese army has reinforced its defenses around the city of Al-Obeid, the capital of North Kordofan state, as the Rapid Support Forces prepare 40 kilometers west of the city, in their efforts to prevent the advance of government forces towards the Darfur region.

Military field sources reported that the army has strengthened its positions in the southern and southwestern sectors of Al-Obeid, in anticipation of any potential attacks from the Rapid Support Forces, following the recent escalation of threats. Meanwhile, the Rapid Support Forces remain stationed in the "Um Samima" area, forming a barrier against any advance by the army towards the west.

In recent hours, the artillery and air force of the army faced reconnaissance movements by the Rapid Support Forces near the "Abqoud" area adjacent to Al-Obeid, indicating an escalation of tension in the region.

In a related context, the humanitarian situation in the city of El Fasher, the capital of the Darfur region, is deteriorating, with nearly half a million civilians suffering from siege and hunger since May 2024. Despite this, the army and joint forces maintain their defensive positions within the city.

Displacement camps in Darfur have also reported an increase in cholera-related deaths, with the number reaching 197 cases in recent hours, bringing the total number of infections since the outbreak began to over 4,113 cases.

It is noteworthy that the Rapid Support Forces and their allies control most areas of Darfur, in addition to regions in South Sudan, while the army controls the northern and eastern areas, including the capital Khartoum.