Sudan's RSF masses 'unprecedented' reinforcements for major offensive on El Obeid
Paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have deployed heavy armor and thousands of fighters around the strategic city of El Obeid in North Kordofan as of June 17, 2026. Military intelligence suggests an assault is imminent within 72 hours to seize control of the gateway to western Sudan. In response, the Sudanese Air Force has intensified aerial bombardments on RSF positions in En Nahud and Al-Khuwei. The buildup has cut off critical humanitarian corridors, threatening approximately 500,000 residents and internally displaced persons currently in the city.