Sudanese Muslims pray for peace on Eid
Sudanese Muslims gathered for Eid al-Fitr prayers in war-torn Omdurman and Port Sudan, with bullet-riddled mosques standing as stark reminders of the ongoing conflict. Prayers were accompanied by widespread calls for peace as displaced families expressed hopes of reuniting and returning to their homes.
The war has taken a significant turn as the Sudanese army recently claimed control over most parts of Khartoum and a major market in Omdurman previously used by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) for launching attacks. Army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan has firmly rejected any possibility of reconciliation with the RSF, vowing instead to defeat the paramilitary group completely.
In response, RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo issued his first statement since the army's advances, promising his forces would return to the capital with greater strength. This exchange signals continuing hostilities despite the army's recent territorial gains.
The two-year conflict has created what the United Nations describes as the world's worst humanitarian crisis, triggering waves of ethnic violence and pushing several regions into famine conditions. Displaced communities seeking refuge in places like Port Sudan represent just a fraction of those affected by the widespread devastation.
As Muslims observed the end of Ramadan, the celebrations were heavily subdued by the realities of war. The juxtaposition of a traditionally joyous holiday against the backdrop of conflict highlighted both the suffering and resilience of the Sudanese people. Many used the occasion to pray not just for personal blessings but for national healing.
International organizations continue monitoring the situation closely while providing humanitarian assistance, though access remains challenging in many areas. Peace initiatives have made little progress as military leaders on both sides maintain aggressive postures, leaving millions of civilians caught in the crossfire of a war that shows few signs of resolution despite recent territorial shifts.
