Massive Fire Consumes Iconic Skyscraper in Khartoum Amidst Sudan Conflict

Buildings in the capital of Sudan have caught fire following intense fighting between the army and rival factions. Videos circulating online depict the renowned Greater Nile Petroleum Oil Company Tower being engulfed in flames. Tagreed Abdin, an architect of the building, expressed her anguish through a post on social media site X (formerly known as Twitter), stating, "This is truly painful." Conflict has persisted in Khartoum and other cities since April, resulting in over one million people being displaced from the country, according to the United Nations. Situated near the River Nile, the 18-storey skyscraper belonging to the oil company is one of Khartoum's most recognizable landmarks. Abdin emphasized that it defined the city's skyline and lamented the "senseless destruction" that has occurred. The cause of the fire in the building's cone-like structure, which features a glass façade, remains unknown. No injuries or fatalities have been reported thus far. The violence in Sudan commenced on April 15, sparked by a power struggle between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Tensions escalated as RSF members were reassigned to various locations nationwide, an action perceived as a threat by the army. According to the Sudan War Monitor, which provides conflict analysis, the RSF launched an attack on army-controlled areas on Saturday, including an office block within the justice ministry. As a result, several government buildings were set ablaze. Witnesses informed AFP news agency that the attacks on army installations continued into Sunday. In one southern district of the city, where the army targeted RSF bases, residents reported awakening to a series of loud explosions. Fighting was also reported in the city of El-Obeid, approximately 400 kilometers (250 miles) south of Khartoum. The RSF has been striving to gain control of the capital, while the military has employed airstrikes to weaken RSF positions. The conflict has claimed the lives of approximately 7,500 individuals and displaced over five million people.