?Geopolitical Briefing: Sudan
25 May 2025
- The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) have seized control of the strategic town of Dibeibat in South Kordofan, marking a significant territorial gain.
- The United States has imposed sanctions on Sudan following findings of chemical weapons use by the SAF during the civil war.
- General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan has appointed former UN official Kamil Idris as prime minister, the first since the 2021 coup.
- The SAF has announced full control over the Greater Khartoum region, including the capital and its adjoining cities.
- Sudan’s military threatens to halt South Sudan’s oil exports via Port Sudan, citing RSF drone attacks on vital infrastructure.(sudantribune.com, Al Jazeera, Reuters, AP News, Al Jazeera)
On 23 May 2025, the SAF announced the capture of Dibeibat, a strategic town in South Kordofan. This victory disrupts RSF supply lines and strengthens the SAF’s position in the region. The operation also led to the displacement of approximately 565 households, highlighting the ongoing humanitarian challenges. This territorial gain enhances Sudan’s control over its geography and resources, reducing external influence in the region.(sudantribune.com, Council on Foreign Relations, ReliefWeb)
The United States imposed sanctions on Sudan on 23 May 2025, accusing the SAF of using chemical weapons during the civil war. These sanctions include restrictions on exports and financial transactions, set to take effect on 6 June. The Sudanese government denies these allegations, calling them baseless. This development underscores the international community’s scrutiny of Sudan’s internal affairs, potentially impacting its political autonomy.(The Times of India, BBC, Reuters)
General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan appointed Kamil Idris as prime minister on 19 May 2025, marking the first such appointment since the 2021 coup. Idris, a former UN official, brings international experience to the role. This move aims to stabilize the political landscape amid ongoing conflict. By appointing a leader with global credentials, Sudan seeks to enhance its political legitimacy and reduce foreign interference.(Reuters)
The SAF declared full control over the Greater Khartoum region, including the capital, on 21 May 2025. This announcement follows a series of military operations to expel RSF forces from key areas. The SAF’s consolidation of power in the capital signifies a shift in the conflict’s dynamics. This control over the nation’s political center strengthens Sudan’s sovereignty and diminishes external actors’ influence.(AP News, Council on Foreign Relations)
Sudan’s military has threatened to halt South Sudan’s oil exports through Port Sudan, citing RSF drone attacks that have damaged critical infrastructure. This potential shutdown could severely impact South Sudan’s economy, which relies heavily on oil exports. The SAF’s control over this strategic port underscores its leverage in regional geopolitics. This move could foster closer ties with neighboring Muslim countries, enhancing regional integration.(Al Jazeera)
