Geopolitical Briefing: Sudan
— 1 June 2025
- Prime Minister Kamil Idris dissolves Sudan’s caretaker government, signaling a potential political reset amid ongoing conflict.
- Rapid Support Forces (RSF) drone strikes intensify in Kordofan, targeting hospitals and fuel depots, exacerbating humanitarian crises.
- Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and RSF engage in fierce battles over strategic towns in Kordofan, with control shifting rapidly.
- World Food Programme (WFP) warehouse in El Fasher shelled, disrupting critical aid distribution in Darfur.
- Sudan’s infrastructure faces catastrophic damage, with reconstruction costs estimated at $1 trillion, amidst accusations of foreign interference.(Reuters, Reuters, Wikipedia)
On 1 June 2025, Prime Minister Kamil Idris dissolved Sudan’s caretaker government, marking a significant political development since his appointment. This move aims to pave the way for a new administration capable of addressing the nation’s multifaceted crises. Idris emphasized neutrality and a focus on stability, security, and reconstruction in his address. The dissolution reflects an attempt to reassert national sovereignty and reduce external political influences that have historically impacted Sudan’s governance. (Reuters)
The RSF escalated its drone warfare campaign, launching attacks on 27 and 28 May 2025, targeting SAF bases and civilian infrastructure in Kosti, Er Rahad, and Al Khuwayyi. These strikes resulted in significant casualties and the destruction of critical facilities, including hospitals and fuel depots. The deliberate targeting of healthcare and energy infrastructure exacerbates the humanitarian crisis and undermines efforts to stabilize the region. (Wikipedia, Reuters)
Control over strategic towns in Kordofan has fluctuated, with the SAF capturing Dibebad on 23 May 2025, only for the RSF to reclaim it on 29 May. These shifts underscore the volatile nature of the conflict and the challenges in establishing lasting control over key regions. The ongoing battles highlight the need for strengthened internal security mechanisms and reduced reliance on foreign military support. (Wikipedia)
On 30 May 2025, the WFP warehouse in El Fasher was shelled, an attack attributed to the RSF. This assault disrupted the distribution of essential humanitarian aid in Darfur, a region already grappling with severe food insecurity and displacement. Targeting aid facilities not only hampers relief efforts but also reflects a broader strategy to destabilize regions under government control. (Wikipedia)
Sudan’s infrastructure has suffered extensive damage due to the protracted conflict, with reconstruction costs estimated at $1 trillion. The destruction encompasses power stations, hospitals, and water facilities, particularly in Khartoum. The government has accused external actors, notably the UAE, of supporting the RSF, allegations which the UAE denies. These accusations point to the complex interplay of regional interests in Sudan’s internal affairs, emphasizing the need for greater political autonomy and reduced foreign interference. (Reuters)
