Amid ongoing conflict in Sudan, the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) have reportedly captured more than ten South Sudanese fighters allied with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in the North Kordofan State. Sources aligned with the SAF confirmed the arrests in the towns of Kazqil and al-Rayash on Thursday, highlighting the growing involvement of foreign nationals in Sudan’s civil war.

The SAF plans to formally notify the South Sudanese government, providing evidence of their citizens’ participation within RSF ranks. The move underscores the international dimension of Sudan’s conflict, which has intensified since April 2023, resulting in a devastating humanitarian crisis across the country.

Drone Attack Kills RSF Security Adviser

In a separate incident, Hamid Ali Abubakar, security adviser to RSF commander Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, was killed in a drone strike by the SAF near Zalingei, the capital of Central Darfur State. Abubakar led the RSF’s al-Saif al-Battar military unit, responsible for operations in northern, central, and western Darfur.

RSF security adviser al-Basha Tabiq condemned the attack as an assassination, warning of severe repercussions. The death of Abubakar adds further tension to the ongoing battles in Darfur and Kordofan, regions already experiencing intense fighting between RSF and government forces.

Intensifying Conflict in Kordofan States

North, South, and West Kordofan have become key battlegrounds as the RSF attempts to expand influence, clashing repeatedly with SAF forces. Tens of thousands of civilians have fled the fighting, seeking refuge in safer areas, including the city of Kosti, where displacement camps are overcrowded and international aid remains limited.

In North Darfur, the Emergency Chambers Council warned of worsening humanitarian conditions in the Umbro locality, reporting that heavy clashes have forced over 6,500 families to abandon their homes. The RSF currently controls most of the Darfur region, with SAF retaining portions of North Darfur. Meanwhile, the army maintains dominance over other key states, including the capital, Khartoum.

Humanitarian Crisis Worsens

Sudan’s humanitarian disaster continues to escalate, driven by months of fighting over the unification of the military and disputes between SAF and RSF leadership. Since the outbreak of the war in April 2023, tens of thousands have been killed, and millions displaced. Families fleeing violence face critical shortages of food, water, shelter, and medical care, particularly in conflict zones across Darfur and Kordofan.

International agencies continue to monitor the situation, warning that prolonged clashes could destabilize the entire region and hinder humanitarian relief efforts. With foreign nationals reportedly participating in RSF ranks, the conflict risks attracting additional regional attention and complicating efforts to negotiate peace.

Regional and International Implications

The capture of South Sudanese fighters by the SAF highlights the cross-border dimensions of Sudan’s conflict. Analysts suggest that ongoing fighting in Darfur and Kordofan could have broader implications for regional security in East Africa, potentially drawing in neighboring countries and international actors seeking to mediate.

As Sudan struggles with one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises, diplomatic and military developments will be closely watched by the international community. With displacement camps overflowing and aid limited, the need for urgent resolution to the conflict has never been more critical.