ALBAWABA - Entering Wad Madani, the seat of Al-Jazirah State in central Sudan and the nation's second-largest city, on Saturday was a major milestone for the Sudanese army, which has won the biggest battle since the conflict began in April 2023.
Without facing any opposition from the Rapid Support troops (RSF), who had occupied Wad Madani since December 2023, government troops moved forward from several angles and seized the city center.
The triumph of the army was verified by Khalid Al-Eisaer, the spokesman for the Sudanese government, who said, "The armed forces, along with other national forces and mobilized citizens, have liberated Wad Madani."
As RSF soldiers withdrew from a number of towns and villages along the route to the capital, the military's rapid progress surpassed expectations.
Notably, the operation was significantly aided by the Sudan Shield Forces, who were commanded by veteran RSF leader Abu Aqila Kikil. After the RSF withdrew, they staged a surprise offensive on Friday and retook strategic areas, including the village of Um Al-Qura, east of Wad Madani.
Pro-army troops advanced by Saturday morning, capturing more territory and gaining access to the city's center via the Hantoub Bridge, which spans the Blue Nile River. Soldiers and Wad Madani locals celebrated the military's entrance with great gusto.
This triumph represents a significant shift in the war and gives the Sudanese army a tactical edge in its continuing combat with the RSF.
