The city of Al-Obeid, once known as the ‘Bride of the Sands,’ has become a critical battleground in the ongoing conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Al-Obeid, located in West Kordofan, is now facing a dire humanitarian crisis as civilians endure displacement, violence, and destruction.
The strategic importance of Al-Obeid, stemming from its geographic location and commercial significance, has made it a primary target in the struggle for control over central Sudan. The city has been under a prolonged siege, impacting the lives of its residents. A fragile supply route opened towards the east offered a lifeline to over a million civilians.
However, this vital corridor remains constantly threatened, leaving the city vulnerable to complete isolation at any moment. The RSF maintains a strong presence to the north, west, and south of Al-Obeid, bolstered by local alliances.
The road leading east towards the White Nile is a stark contrast, where the daily lives of women working in the fields intersect with the movement of military convoys, reflecting the escalating preparations for combat. This same road sees soldiers heading to the frontlines alongside streams of civilians fleeing Al-Obeid, carrying what little they can salvage. This forced displacement is a painful illustration of the Sudanese war.
The situation in Al-Obeid remains precarious. The city’s residents live in constant anticipation of further conflict, highlighting the devastating impact of the ongoing crisis on civilian populations.
