Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces declared full control over the strategic Libya-Egypt-Sudan border triangle on Tuesday, following a sudden retreat by the Sudanese army which accused Khalifa Haftar’s forces of assisting in a cross-border assault.

The RSF released a statement asserting its fighters had captured the border triangle area, calling the move a “qualitative step” in the war that has splintered Sudan since April 2023. The region, located near al-Fashir in North Darfur, marks the intersection of three nations and is critical for weapons logistics and smuggling routes.

“This triangle is a pivotal junction,” the RSF said, highlighting the symbolic and strategic importance of their gain.

Sudanese army confirms withdrawal after alleged foreign assault

In a parallel statement, the Sudanese army acknowledged the withdrawal of its units from the same area, stating that it was part of its “defensive arrangements to repel aggression.” However, the military also alleged that the RSF coordinated with forces loyal to eastern Libyan commander Khalifa Haftar in an attack that triggered the retreat.

“These groups are exploiting the corridor for weapons deliveries,” said Sudanese military officials, referencing both RSF and Haftar-aligned units.

Denials and denouncements deepen regional friction

Haftar’s forces denied taking part in any cross-border operation, instead accusing Sudanese army-aligned factions of attacking their patrols inside Libyan territory. This mutual finger-pointing comes amid growing regional tension over the Sudanese war’s spillover.

The Sudanese government has long claimed that the UAE is supplying arms to the RSF via Libya, a charge the UAE denies. Notably, both Egypt—an ally of the Sudanese army—and Haftar are closely aligned, further complicating regional dynamics.

Geostrategic stakes rising in desert frontlines

The triangle zone is emerging as one of the most significant fronts in Sudan’s ongoing civil war, which pits the Sudanese Armed Forces against the RSF. With supply routes, regional alliances, and battlefield momentum all hanging in the balance, the contest over this desert junction could shape the next phase of the conflict.