Sudan’s Iconic Tower Engulfed In Flames Amid Ongoing Conflict
Khartoum, the capital of Sudan, witnessed the 18-storey Greater Nile Petroleum Oil Company Headquarters Tower, one of its most recognized structures, being consumed by fire amidst the ongoing intense conflict in the city. Built in 2010, the tower is regarded by locals as the second most beautiful structure in Sudan after the Burj al-Fateh tower, which is located a mere seven-minute drive away.
Images and videos shared across social media platforms captured the tower, thickly shrouded in black smoke, as flames raged through it, casting a dark pall over the city.
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The origins of the fire remain disputed. While army sources accuse RSF rebels of bombing the building early in the day, an RSF statement counters, alleging that the Sudanese Army was responsible, aiming to tarnish the RSF’s reputation.
The escalating conflict between the Sudanese military and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has wreaked havoc on the nation and particularly its capital. Although official UN reports from August indicate a death toll of 4,000, the actual count is feared to be substantially higher.
Adding to the city’s distress, rights groups and activists have highlighted that RSF troops have occupied civilian homes in the Greater Khartoum area, converting them into operational bases. In retaliation, the military has been reported to bomb these residential zones.
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