Port Sudan, Sudan - January 13, 2025 Storyline: The Sudanese army has claimed retaking key positions in the central state of Gezira (or Al Jazirah), including the capital Wad Madani, from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). In a statement released on Saturday, the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) announced their successful offensive to retake Wad Madani, ending over a year of RSF control. This military advance comes amid a dire security and humanitarian crisis, with widespread displacement and alleged atrocities committed by the RSF. Crowds of local civilians supporting the SAF took to the streets to welcome the development. Wad Madani, the capital of Al Jazirah and the nearest city to Khartoum, has been a key RSF stronghold since December 2023, serving as a base for operations into neighboring states. The city, which evolved into a major agricultural and industrial hub, has hosted hundreds of thousands of displaced people since the brutal clashes between the SAF and RSF erupted in April 2023. Analysts said its recapture by the Sudanese army holds significant strategic value. The relentless fighting in Sudan has caused a humanitarian crisis which has claimed at least 29,683 lives and displaced nearly 15 million people, according to the latest estimates by international organizations. The devastating conflict has also pushed the country's health system and economy to the brink of collapse. There are increasing calls by the international community for a peaceful resolution as millions continue to endure desperate and miserable conditions. Shotlist: Port Sudan, Sudan - Jan 11, 2025: 1.Various of people taking to streets to celebrate recapture of Wad Madani by Sudanese army, traffic; 2. SOUNDBITE (Arabic, dubbed in English) Mohamed Ahmed, displaced man: "We are very satisfied and surprised. The RSF militia have committed horrific violations in Al Jazirah for over a year and it's time for them to be defeated, they have no future in Sudan." 3. SOUNDBITE (Arabic, dubbed in English) Adil Ali, displaced man: "It took a long time to do it but it happened. We were displaced for over a year and we've lost everything when RSF took over Madani, but now we can start from the beginning and return home." 4. Various of people celebrating recapture of Wad Madani 5. SOUNDBITE (Arabic, dubbed in English) Mohiedeen Mohamed, military expert: "This development will place a stranglehold on the RSF and besiege them on Eastern Khartoum and Al Jazirah and cut the supply routes. It has short and long term strategic importance which shall accelerate the retaking of the capital and minimize the conflict zones." FILE: Port Sudan, Sudan - June 21, 2024: 6. Various of displaced persons waiting in line to fill their water bottles 7. Displaced persons. [Restrictions : No access Chinese mainland/Al-Arabiya TV/Middle East Broadcasting Center]