Sudanese army regains control of Al-Qutayna after intense clashes with RSF

On Sunday February 23, the Sudanese Army successfully regained control of the city of Al-Qutayna in the White Nile state, following fierce fighting with the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Major Mohamed Qalaa, a senior field commander, declared the city “completely free” after the RSF’s defeat, according to a video shared by pro-Army channels. The video, however, could not be independently verified by Sudan Tribune.

Al-Qutayna, strategically located north of White Nile state and south of Khartoum, was seized by the RSF in November 2023. The city lies on a critical road that connects RSF-controlled areas, including the Jebel al-Awliya region and its dam, to Omdurman. The dam’s bridge has become a vital supply route linking Omdurman to Khartoum, further adding to the city’s importance.

The situation in Al-Qutayna had grown increasingly tense, with RSF forces intensifying their attacks on civilians and surrounding villages in recent weeks, marked by killings, looting, and forced displacements.

The Sudanese Foreign Ministry has reported that RSF attacks in the region, particularly in northern White Nile state, have resulted in the deaths of over 400 individuals, including women and children. The toll continues to rise, with dozens of people still unaccounted for. Despite the widespread violence, the army’s recapture of Al-Qutayna is seen as a significant strategic gain, though the ongoing conflict between the Sudanese forces and the RSF remains far from resolved.