The Sudanese military, supported by allied groups, has regained control of the town of Al-Khuwayyi in West Kordofan after intense combat with the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), according to a statement issued Sunday.
The RSF had previously announced its capture of Al-Khuwayyi on May 3, just one day after it seized El Nahud, a significant town in the same region. Al-Khuwayyi lies roughly 110 kilometers west of El Obeid, the capital of North Kordofan.
A commander aligned with the military told local media that army units, joint forces, intelligence operatives, and community-based militias had taken full control of the town. The Joint Force is an alliance of armed factions fighting alongside the Sudanese army.
Footage circulating on pro-army platforms, reportedly verified by independent observers, shows government forces being welcomed by Al-Khuwayyi residents. Additional clips appear to show RSF equipment losses during the clashes.
Minni Minawi, the Darfur regional governor and a senior figure within the Joint Force, confirmed the recapture of both Al-Khuwayyi and Umm Sammaymah in neighboring North Kordofan. Posting on social media, he praised the operation and encouraged residents to share their experiences of the battle.
The military launched its latest offensive from El Obeid, aiming to push westward into West Kordofan and northward toward Darfur. Capturing these strategic areas is seen as key to lifting the RSF siege on El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur and a crucial stronghold in the ongoing conflict.