Khartoum: Sudan’s war has entered a new and dangerous phase as the Rapid Support Forces have pushed east from Darfur into the Kordofan region, driving fresh clashes with the Sudanese army and forcing thousands of civilians to flee.

According to recent field reports, the paramilitary group has stepped up attacks in North and South Kordofan after gaining control of large parts of Darfur. The town of Bara in North Kordofan has seen some of the heaviest violence, with the two sides fighting repeatedly for control. Residents say the town changed hands several times in only a few days, leaving homes destroyed and families scattered.

In South Kordofan, communities are trapped between advancing fighters and tight blockades around key areas such as Kadugli and al Dalanj. Local officials warn that food shortages have turned into famine like conditions, with many families relying on leaves or limited rations to survive.

Survivors from newly captured areas have described violent reprisals. People from Bara reported that some civilians were shot after being accused of supporting the army. Aid workers also confirmed a deadly drone strike in West Kordofan’s Sheikan locality that killed dozens, including women and children.

The renewed fighting has displaced tens of thousands of people, many of whom are moving toward eastern Sudan in search of safety. Humanitarian agencies say they are struggling to reach the worst affected regions because of blocked roads, insecurity and repeated air attacks.

While the Rapid Support Forces recently accepted a ceasefire proposal from the United States, the Sudanese army has refused, allowing the conflict to intensify. International observers warn that the continued eastward push could destabilize even more of Sudan and deepen the humanitarian crisis.

With both sides preparing for larger battles and civilians caught in the middle, Sudan faces a growing threat of wider collapse unless talks resume and humanitarian access is restored.