Fighting in Sudan has set the country’s largest oil refinery ablaze. The al-Jaili refinery, claimed by both military and rebel forces, has been engulfed in flames, releasing polluted smoke. Satellite data confirmed extensive damage, highlighting the ongoing humanitarian crisis and conflict in Sudan.

Recent hostilities surrounding Sudan’s largest oil refinery have ignited significant destruction, according to satellite data. The al-Jaili refinery, located approximately 60 kilometers north of Khartoum, was engulfed in flames due to intensified fighting amid the country’s ongoing civil war, releasing thick, polluted smoke into the atmosphere.

Forces allied with army chief General Abdel al-Fattah Burhan have asserted control over the facility, previously commanded by the rebel Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This refinery, a vital asset jointly owned by Sudan’s government and the state-run China National Petroleum Corp, has been a primary target in the ongoing conflict.

Since April 2023, the RSF has maintained a stronghold over the refinery, previously encircling it with landmines to deter advances. Although the facility has faced prior assaults, it remained operational, processing 100,000 barrels of oil daily until the recent attack, which resulted in extensive fires throughout the complex, as reported by NASA satellite data.

Recent satellite imagery revealed significant portions of the refinery ablaze, with dramatic flames visible from multiple locations. Observations captured from Planet Labs PBC indicated extensive damage, including charred oil tanks, highlighting the facility’s critical state after the intense confrontation.

The tragic escalation of violence in Sudan has led to the destruction of its largest oil refinery amidst a humanitarian crisis. Control of the refinery remains contested between military forces and the Rapid Support Forces. Despite past attempts to mediate peace and the severity of the situation, violence persists, causing devastating impacts on the nation’s infrastructure and its citizens’ well-being.

Original Source: www.scmp.com

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