Sudan’s Civil War Escalates: Al-Jaili Oil Refinery Engulfed in Flames
Fighting in Sudan has led to the al-Jaili oil refinery being set ablaze, as military forces and the RSF battle for control. Satellite imagery confirms the extent of the damage, raising concerns over public health and economic impact. The situation exemplifies the broader humanitarian crisis stemming from the ongoing civil war.
Recent satellite imagery has confirmed that fighting near Sudan’s largest oil refinery, the al-Jaili facility, has resulted in significant damage, with the complex now engulfed in flames. The firefighting incident is related to the ongoing civil conflict between military forces loyal to General Abdel-Fattah Burhan and the rebel Rapid Support Force (RSF), which previously claimed control of the refinery. This facility, strategically essential for Sudan’s oil output, has endured attacks in the past but had remained largely intact until recent skirmishes escalated.
On Thursday, a military attack was launched against the refinery, causing multiple fires throughout the facility, as revealed by NASA satellite data. The images shared depicted plumes of black smoke swirling over the site, with the smoke potentially exacerbating health risks among the local population. The Sudanese military has accused the RSF of deliberately setting the blaze, asserting their responsibility for the destruction.
Conversely, the RSF contends that the fires were a result of airstrikes by the Sudanese military, which allegedly utilized barrel bombs. There is ongoing uncertainty regarding the veracity of these claims as neither party has presented definitive evidence. However, reports surfaced of videos showing army personnel near the refinery, suggesting a shift in control may have occurred.
China, historically Sudan’s largest trading partner, has not publicly addressed the situation despite the refinery’s critical importance to both Sudan’s economy and international trade relations. The impact of losing the refinery could compel Sudan to depend on more expensive fuel imports, worsening the economic conditions already exacerbated by conflict.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has noted his concern regarding the escalating violence in Sudan, particularly referencing the refinery attack. He has urged combatants to avoid actions that may have dire consequences for both Sudan and the surrounding region. Meanwhile, the civil war—which ignited in April 2023—has resulted in overwhelming humanitarian crises, including widespread displacement and severe food scarcity affecting millions.
The conflict surrounding Sudan’s al-Jaili oil refinery highlights the destructive consequences of the civil war between the military and the RSF. As the fighting endangers critical infrastructure, humanitarian issues intensify, and international concerns grow. Without intervention, the ongoing violence threatens both economic stability and public health in the region, further complicating an already dire situation.
Original Source: edition.cnn.com
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