Sudanese Army, RSF Clash Near Al-Jili Oil Refinery, Displacing Millions

Fighting has intensified between the Sudanese Army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) near the al-Jili oil refinery north of Khartoum, with reports of heavy clashes and significant smoke rising from the area. The Sudanese Army claims to have reached the refinery following a multi-pronged offensive, while accusing the RSF of deliberately setting it on fire to sabotage national infrastructure. Conversely, the RSF alleges that the army launched airstrikes on the refinery, escalating tensions further between the two factions. This conflict, which began in April 2023, has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and displaced around 12 million people, triggering a major humanitarian crisis. Additionally, the RSF has begun an assault on el-Fasher following an ultimatum for the army to withdraw, leading to fears of civilian casualties. Reports indicate that the fighting has severely damaged medical facilities, exacerbating the humanitarian situation in the region.