2.14.2. Conflict dynamics and tactics

At the start of June 2025, clashes erupted on the border with Libya, after troops from the Sabil Al-Salam battalion affiliated with Khalifa Haftar’s Libyan National Army (LNA) reportedly advanced into the El Uweinat border area.1169 On 11 June 2025, the RSF reported having taken control of the El Uweinat area, the strategic border triangle between Sudan, Libya and Egypt, while the SAF announced they had evacuated the area and accused the RSF of receiving direct support from Khalifa Haftar’s LNA.1170 In July 2025, the Sudans Post noted that Northern and River Nile states, previously considered relatively stable, faced an increased risk of being drawn into the armed conflict as the northern region faced RSF drone strikes, threats and military advances.1171 In 2025, the RSF reportedly increased their drone capabilities, employing long-range drones capable of reaching infrastructure in previously safe areas, for example repeatedly targeting Merowe dam.1172 In April 2026, UNHCR described the situation in Northern state as remaining ‘relatively stable’, albeit with increased drone activity reported in Al Dabbah, Merowe and Dongola.1173