Title: Al-Jaili refinery in Khartoum destroyed in series of bombings
Introduction :
The situation in Sudan is taking a dramatic turn as the country’s only refinery, al-Jaili, has been hit hard by a series of bombings. The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese army accuse each other of being responsible for this destruction. The incident raises questions about the future of the country’s fuel supply, which was largely dependent on this refinery.
Details of the attack:
At daybreak, residents of Khartoum witnessed a powerful explosion, followed by a thick cloud of black smoke. According to an RSF statement, the al-Jaili refinery was completely destroyed. The RSF accuses the Sudanese army of deliberately attacking the country’s vital infrastructure, an allegation which the army rejects.
A refinery already targeted:
It is important to emphasize that this attack is not the first against the al-Jaili refinery. Since the start of the conflict, she has already been targeted three times. The RSF took control of the refinery at the start of the conflict in April, and since July it has no longer produced oil, according to consultancy CITAC Africa. However, the destruction of the refinery will have a long-term impact since it was the only oil refinery in Sudan, the second smallest producing country in OPEC.
A context of tensions and escalation:
These attacks come at a time when peace talks between the different actors in the conflict have stalled. Both sides continue to maintain military pressure and resort to escalating violence. This destruction of the al-Jaili refinery only worsens the economic difficulties of the country, already impacted by fuel shortages and high inflation.
Consequences for Sudan:
The destruction of the al-Jaili refinery raises concerns about the country’s fuel supply. With the loss of this vital infrastructure, Sudan risks becoming even more reliant on fuel imports, which could lead to higher prices and additional economic pressure on the population.
Conclusion :
The destruction of the al-Jaili refinery is a blow to Sudan, which was largely dependent on the facility for its fuel supply. Persistent tensions between the opposing forces and the impasse in peace talks are only aggravating the country’s already precarious situation. It is essential that the various actors in the conflict find a peaceful solution in order to restore economic stability and ensure a better future for the Sudanese people.