RIYADH: The foreign ministry of Saudi Arabia announced on Sunday that both Saudi Arabia and the United States (US) are eager to resume formal talks between the delegations of the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces.
In a statement, the ministry emphasized their commitment to the people of Sudan and called upon all parties to agree to and effectively implement a new ceasefire.
#Statement | The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United States of America are keen to continue talks with the Sudanese negotiating delegations. pic.twitter.com/JNWnKNznwT
— Foreign Ministry 🇸🇦 (@KSAmofaEN) June 4, 2023
According to the ministry, the delegations of the Sudanese fighting factions are currently in Jeddah and are engaging in daily negotiations. These discussions primarily focus on facilitating humanitarian assistance and reaching an agreement on the necessary steps that must be taken before the resumption of the Jeddah talks.
The statement reminded the parties involved that they are obligated to implement the commitments outlined in the May 11 Jeddah Declaration of Commitment, which aims to protect the civilians of Sudan. Facilitators stand ready to resume formal talks and urge the parties to fulfill their obligations.
Since mid-April, Sudan has been gripped by chaos when clashes erupted between the military, led by Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan, and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, commanded by Gen. Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo.
Saudi Arabia and US Actively Involved in Mediation Efforts
In an effort to mediate the conflict, Saudi Arabia and the US have been actively involved. On May 21, both countries successfully brokered a temporary ceasefire agreement to facilitate the delivery of vital humanitarian aid. However, the military’s recent decision to withdraw from the ceasefire talks in Jeddah dealt a setback to these efforts.
The fighting has turned Khartoum, the capital, and other urban areas into battlegrounds, leading to widespread looting and destruction of residential areas across the country. Over 1.65 million people have been displaced, seeking refuge in safer regions within Sudan and neighboring countries.
Recent reports indicate that intense fighting has erupted in Khartoum, Omdurman, Bahri, and the northern part of the Darfur region. Residents have heard shelling and gunfire, while military aircraft have been observed flying over the capital.
