RSF Reinforces Positions Around Kulbus Amid Fears of New Offensive

KULBUS, July 9, 2026 - Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have deployed significant military reinforcements around the town of Kulbus in West Darfur, raising fears of an imminent large-scale offensive as fighting intensifies in the region. The military buildup comes less than two weeks after forces allied with the Sudanese army announced they had regained control of Kulbus following heavy clashes with the RSF. The town had been under RSF control since October 2024. Large convoys of combat vehicles and armoured units have reportedly been moved from El Geneina toward northern parts of West Darfur, while additional reinforcements have arrived from Saraf Omra and Kabkabiya in neighbouring North Darfur. Military movements have also been observed toward Abu Liha, Abu Qamra, and Wadi Seira, with reports indicating preparations for coordinated operations targeting Kulbus in West Darfur and Tine in North Darfur. The escalating military activity has forced civilians to flee several villages along the route between Um Baru and Tine after homes, markets, and water facilities were reportedly destroyed during the advance. Additional RSF forces have taken positions south of Jebel Moon and in the Halilat area, approximately 30 kilometres east of Kulbus, further increasing concerns over a renewed assault on the town. Located about 130 kilometres north of El Geneina, Kulbus is the historical stronghold of the Gimir community and the seat of its traditional sultanate. During the early stages of the conflict, local leaders had negotiated arrangements that spared the town from major attacks, but Kulbus eventually fell to RSF forces in October 2024 before being recaptured by army-aligned forces in late June 2026.