(MENAFN) Sudan's military successfully defended the West Kordofan city of Babnousa against a Sunday offensive launched by the Rapid Support Forces paramilitary group, local eyewitnesses reported.

According to accounts provided to media, RSF fighters bombarded Babnousa with heavy artillery before advancing with armored fighting vehicles, though government forces managed to repulse the incursion.

Military personnel shared footage across social platforms verifying they had driven back RSF combatants and were now conducting sweeping operations in Babnousa's surrounding districts.

The Babnousa Emergency Room, a grassroots aid organization, verified that government troops thwarted the RSF offensive targeting the 22nd Infantry Division headquarters. The group did not disclose information regarding fatalities or infrastructure destruction.

The relief committee described Babnousa as a "ghost town," noting that approximately 177,000 residents have evacuated amid persistent fighting between government and RSF forces.

The RSF has not issued any statement regarding the reported incident.

In recent days, the military has relied on aerial cargo deliveries to resupply its garrison in Babnousa, a city subjected to continuous RSF assaults.

Government forces and the RSF have waged a devastating war since April 15, 2023, which neither regional nor international diplomatic efforts have successfully resolved. The hostilities have claimed thousands of lives and created a massive displacement crisis affecting millions.

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