What's happened
Sudan's Khartoum International Airport resumed commercial flights on Sunday, marking a step toward normalization amid ongoing conflict. The airport, damaged in the war that began in April 2023, saw its second flight since October, after military retook control from the RSF. The conflict has caused over 40,000 deaths and displaced millions.
What's behind the headline?
The reopening of Khartoum International Airport signals a tentative step toward stability, but the ongoing conflict and damage to infrastructure suggest that full normalization remains distant. The military's retaking of the airport and control of Khartoum indicates a consolidation of power, yet the war's toll—over 40,000 deaths and a massive humanitarian crisis—continues to overshadow any progress. The resumption of flights may facilitate aid delivery and economic activity, but the deep-rooted political and military divisions will likely prolong instability. The international community's focus on war crimes, including investigations into violence against civilians, underscores the severity of the crisis. Ultimately, the airport's reopening is a symbolic move that may improve logistical access, but the path to peace and reconstruction will be long and complex.
What the papers say
The Independent reports that the airport's reopening is a crucial step in normalizing life in Khartoum, with flights resuming after years of conflict and damage. Al Jazeera highlights the scenes of jubilation and the significance of reconnecting the capital to other regions, emphasizing the symbolic importance of the move. The New Arab and AP News detail the ongoing violence, the damage to infrastructure, and the broader humanitarian crisis, providing context on the war's devastating impact. All sources agree that while the airport's reopening is positive, it does not signal an end to the conflict, which continues to cause suffering and instability.
How we got here
The war in Sudan started in April 2023, triggered by a power struggle between the military and the RSF paramilitary group. The conflict has devastated Khartoum and other regions, causing a humanitarian crisis with over 14 million displaced and widespread famine and disease. The airport was heavily damaged early in the war, and its reopening signifies efforts to restore stability and connectivity.
Go deeper
Common question
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Is Khartoum Airport Reopening a Sign of Peace in Sudan?
The reopening of Khartoum International Airport after months of conflict has sparked questions about what this means for Sudan's future. Is this a sign that peace is returning, or just a small step in a long road to stability? Below, we explore the reasons behind the airport's reopening, its impact on the ongoing conflict, and what it could mean for civilians and aid efforts in Sudan.
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Why Was Khartoum Airport Closed and What Does Its Reopening Mean?
The reopening of Khartoum International Airport marks a significant milestone amid Sudan's ongoing conflict. After years of damage and disruption caused by the war that began in April 2023, the airport's resumption of flights signals efforts to restore stability and reconnect the capital with the world. But what does this mean for Sudan’s future? Below, we explore the reasons behind the closure, the impact on civilians, and what’s next for the region.
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How Are Recent Global Crises Impacting Stability and Daily Life?
Recent events like severe weather, conflicts, and economic shifts are shaping our world in profound ways. From flight cancellations to conflict zones reopening, these crises raise questions about what’s next for travel, politics, and energy. Below, we explore the key issues and what they mean for you.
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How Are Recent Major Events Shaping Our World Today?
From severe weather disruptions to political upheavals, recent headlines reveal a world in flux. Understanding these events helps us stay informed and prepared for what’s next. Below, explore key questions about the latest news stories and their broader implications.
More on these topics
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Sudan, officially the Republic of the Sudan, is a country in North-East Africa. It is bordered by Egypt to the north, Libya to the northwest, Chad to the west, the Central African Republic to the southwest, South Sudan to the south, Ethiopia to the southe
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Khartoum or Khartum is the capital of Sudan. With a population of 5,274,321, its metropolitan area is the largest in Sudan, the sixth-largest in Africa, the second-largest in North Africa, and the fourth-largest in the Arab world.
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Khartoum International Airport is the principal airport in Khartoum, the capital of Sudan.
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The United Nations is an intergovernmental organization that aims to maintain international peace and security, develop friendly relations among nations, achieve international cooperation, and be a centre for harmonizing the actions of nations.
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The Rapid Support Forces are Sudanese paramilitary forces operated by the Sudanese Government. The RSF grew out of, and is primarily composed of, the Janjaweed militias which fought on behalf of the Sudanese government during the War in Darfur, killing an