Unlike other parts of the country, such as the often turbulent western Darfur region, Khartoum is not used to war. This is the first time that people in the capital have seen such clashes. Early on Sunday, Sudan's doctors' union said at least 17 civilians had been killed in the city, but after two days of fighting, the true number of victims is likely to be higher. Khartoum resident Kholood Khair told the BBC that residents could not be sure of safety anywhere.