A coalition of ex-Darfur rebel groups aligned with General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan’s forces (SAF) launched a significant assault on the Rapid Support Forces’ (RSF) Al-Zurug base in North Darfur on Saturday. The move aimed to disrupt RSF operations targeting El Fasher, the embattled state capital.
The offensive, led by the Joint Force of Armed Struggle Movements (JSAMF) under Darfur Governor Minni Minnawi, highlights the escalating battle for control in Darfur. JSAMF forces reportedly captured military equipment and inflicted heavy losses on RSF fighters, according to local sources.
Strategic Importance
Al-Zurug, a crucial desert stronghold for RSF logistics, lies northeast of El Fasher. Verified footage shows JSAMF forces, with SAF air support, launching a coordinated attack designed to weaken RSF efforts around El Fasher, the last SAF-controlled urban center in Darfur.
“The operation’s goal was to disrupt RSF logistics and relieve pressure on El Fasher, not to hold the base long-term,” a Sudanese military expert explained.
Symbolism and History
Al-Zurug holds symbolic significance for the RSF. Developed as a “victor’s city” after the RSF’s dominance in Darfur during the 2000s, the base represents the group’s regional influence. RSF commander Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (Hemedti) oversaw its development, and his family maintains strong ties to the area.
In a video statement, Dagalo’s father, Hamdan Dagalo Musa, vowed to resist SAF and JSAMF forces, declaring, “This is our land. We will not accept displacement.”
Conflicting Claims
SAF and JSAMF announced a strategic victory, claiming the destruction of five RSF bases, 122 military vehicles, and the deaths or injuries of over 700 RSF fighters. They also reported seizing significant weaponry.
“Your courageous forces have achieved a critical victory by liberating the Wadi Hawar area and capturing Al-Zurug,” the joint statement read.
However, the RSF refuted these claims, stating it had regained control of Al-Zurug by Sunday. In a counterstatement, the RSF accused SAF and its allies of committing atrocities, including attacks on civilians and destruction of infrastructure.
Broader Implications
The clash at Al-Zurug is part of a larger struggle for dominance in Darfur. The RSF already controls four state capitals and much of the rural region. However, SAF retains its hold on El Fasher, bolstered by JSAMF and Zaghawa militias.
The fighting comes amid reports that the RSF is backing the establishment of a civilian government to rival the military junta in Port Sudan. Analysts warn that if El Fasher falls, the RSF could solidify control over Darfur and pave the way for a parallel administration.
As violence intensifies, Sudan’s political and humanitarian crises worsen. The UN estimates millions have been displaced, with civilians in Darfur bearing the brunt of the ongoing conflict.