Hemetti says RSF force has expanded to 450,000 fighters

Khartoum, May 6, 2026 - Rapid Support Forces (RSF) commander Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo has reaffirmed his commitment to continuing military operations against the Sudanese army, declaring that his forces are prepared for a prolonged conflict while insisting that the RSF remains open to negotiations.

Speaking to RSF officers at an undisclosed location, Hemetti said the paramilitary group had repeatedly sought an end to the war but argued that peace could not be achieved unilaterally. He maintained that agreeing to negotiations should not be interpreted as weakness, stressing that continued fighting offered little benefit to Sudan.

The RSF leader claimed that his forces had expanded significantly since the outbreak of war in April 2023, stating that the group had grown from approximately 143,000 fighters to 450,000 personnel. He presented the increase as evidence of continued support for the RSF, while sharply criticizing the Sudanese army leadership and accusing it of relying on allied Islamist factions and foreign-backed elements.

Hemetti also signaled readiness for a long-term confrontation, saying the RSF could continue fighting for decades if no political settlement is reached. At the same time, he accused the army of targeting civilians and infrastructure, while asserting that his forces were exercising restraint despite possessing the capability to intensify operations further.

The RSF commander reiterated that his stated objective was the creation of a national army free from partisan or ideological control. He also promised improved administration and public services in RSF-controlled areas, including support for wounded fighters and educational assistance for families affected by the conflict.