The World Today
Sudanese army chief visits Khartoum airport after drone strike
Sudanese army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, current president of the Sovereign Transitional Council, visited Khartoum airport on Tuesday, shortly after it was hit by a drone attack. This visit comes just ahead of the long-awaited reopening of the airport, after the armed forces regained control in March following nearly two years of rule by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) amid the devastating civil war that began in April 2023.
During his inspection, Al Burhan took the opportunity to express the Sudanese government's firm determination to "eradicate the rebellion." In a forceful statement, he stated that "any attack against the Sudanese people will be met with a resounding response." He also called on the population to trust that "this brutal gang will not harm them," emphasizing his support for all those seeking peace and a return to normalcy in the country.
However, the situation is complex, and Al Burhan made it clear that "no militia" or "any party that supports the militia" should have an influential role in Sudan's future. His message was clear: the role of the Armed Forces is to ensure the security and protection of all Sudanese. "Soon, no one will be able to threaten this land," he stated resolutely.
It's important to note that Al Burhan did not directly address the drone attack that took place early in the morning. Security sources consulted by the Sudan Tribune indicated that air defense systems managed to intercept several of these drones; however, witnesses reported the presence of smoke plumes in the area, suggesting possible impacts and damage that are still being assessed.
The civil war ravaging Sudan stems from deep disagreements over the process of integrating the paramilitary group into the armed forces. This discord derailed the political transition that had been established following the fall of Omar Hassan al-Bashir's regime in 2019, a period already complicated by the resignation of then-Prime Minister Abdullah Hamdok following a coup.
The conflict has attracted international attention, with multiple countries offering support to the various warring factions. The humanitarian situation in Sudan is alarming, with millions of displaced people and refugees. The international community is concerned not only about the spread of disease in the affected areas, but also about the damage to critical infrastructure, which is making it difficult to reach hundreds of thousands of people in need.
Al Burhan reiterated the importance of establishing "clear principles" in every peace initiative aimed at stabilizing Sudan. His firm stance underscores the urgency of resolving this conflict, which has left the country mired in one of the most serious humanitarian crises in the world. The reopening of the airport is, in this sense, a significant step, but also a reminder of the fragility of the current situation.
The international community is closely monitoring developments in Sudan, hoping that the determination of the military leadership can lead to a long-term solution. Rebuilding the country and restoring its social fabric will depend on a coordinated approach involving both the state and civil society, engaged in dialogue that prioritizes peace and stability.
The fluctuating situation in Sudan continues to be at the epicenter of debates on regional security and international cooperation. It is vital that concrete steps be taken to translate declared intentions into effective action, as this is the only way to pave the way for peace and the reconstruction of a nation devastated by internal conflict.
Meanwhile, citizens and international leaders alike hope that Al Burhan's recent visit to Khartoum Airport is not just a symbolic gesture, but the beginning of a broader process to restore normalcy and foster hope for a better future for Sudan.
