A satellite image from Planet Lab PBS taken on Friday, January 24, 2025, shows a massive fire consuming Sudan's largest oil refinery, located north of Khartoum. AP Photo
Fighting around Sudan's largest oil refinery has caused a massive blaze at the complex, sending thick clouds of black smoke over Khartoum, the nation's capital. The refinery, located about 60 kilometers north of Khartoum in the al-Jaili area, was already under threat from ongoing civil war between the Sudanese military and the rebel group, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Recent satellite data reveals that the attacks led to fires across vast sections of the refinery, with flames reaching high into the sky. Oil tanks at the site have been severely damaged, and the heavy smoke continues to spread south toward Khartoum.
The al-Jaili refinery is critical to Sudan’s oil production, with a capacity of processing 100,000 barrels of oil per day. Since April 2023, the RSF has maintained control over the refinery, guarding it against the military. The RSF had also surrounded the facility with landmines, adding another layer of defense. However, despite previous attacks, the refinery remained largely intact until Thursday’s strike. The fire is a new chapter in the ongoing conflict between the military and the RSF, which has intensified since April 2023, leaving thousands dead and millions displaced.
Satellite images from NASA and Planet Labs show the severity of the blaze. These images reveal multiple active fires across the complex, with large oil tanks scorched and the area enveloped in soot. The thick black smoke has been blown south by the wind, reaching the capital. Such pollution can worsen respiratory conditions and even increase the risk of cancer for those exposed to it.
The Sudanese military has accused the RSF of intentionally starting the fire at the refinery. In a statement released Thursday, they claimed the RSF set the refinery alight in a “desperate attempt to destroy the country’s infrastructure,” adding that it demonstrated the “criminality” of the militia. The RSF, however, countered with accusations of airstrikes from the Sudanese military. They allege that barrel bombs dropped by military aircraft caused the destruction of the refinery. Neither side has provided proof to back up their claims.
While Sudan’s largest trading partner, China, has yet to comment on the incident, it has historically had a significant stake in Sudan’s oil industry. After Chevron pulled out in the 1990s due to violence, China stepped in and became Sudan's primary oil partner. However, China has not responded to inquiries regarding the refinery fire, and the Chinese Foreign Ministry declined to comment.
The attack on Sudan’s largest oil facility has drawn concern from the international community. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres expressed his deep concern about the escalation of violence in Sudan and its far-reaching consequences, including significant economic and environmental harm. He urged both sides to avoid actions that could further destabilize the country and the region.
Sudan has been in turmoil since 2019, when a popular uprising ousted long-time dictator Omar al-Bashir. Although a brief transition to democracy followed, the military coup of 2021 led by Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan and RSF leader Gen. Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, derailed the hopes for peace. The conflict between the military and RSF has already claimed over 28,000 lives, with many more suffering from famine and displacement.
As Sudan’s civil war rages on, the attacks on vital infrastructure, including the oil refinery, underscore the severe impact the conflict continues to have on both the people of Sudan and the wider region.
