KHARTOUM: An international donors’ conference for Sudan commenced in Geneva on Monday, coinciding with the second day of a 72-hour cease-fire between warring generals. The temporary truce aims to facilitate the delivery of crucial aid to the conflict-stricken country.
The armed forces led by Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan have been engaged in a bitter power struggle with paramilitary forces commanded by his former deputy, Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, since April 15. The conflict has resulted in over 2,000 fatalities and displaced an estimated two million people, including 528,000 refugees.
The recent cease-fire, which began at 6 am on Sunday, intends to halt hostilities and enable the movement of aid. The Saudi foreign ministry announced the agreement, stating that representatives of the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces had reached a consensus on the 72-hour cessation of violence.
Reports from Khartoum suggest a relatively calm situation, although residents are calling for a comprehensive and lasting cease-fire. While the current truce brings temporary relief, concerns remain about the occupying presence of the Rapid Support Forces in civilian homes.
In parallel to the cease-fire, an international pledging conference for Sudan is scheduled to take place in Geneva. The United Nations, together with several state partners, organized the event, which featured addresses from UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and other dignitaries. Donors are expected to announce financial commitments to address the unfolding humanitarian crisis and emphasize the parties’ obligation to uphold International Humanitarian Law.
Sudan Conflict
Despite the truce, clashes had escalated prior to the agreement, prompting Saudi Arabia to threaten the postponement of negotiations on its soil if the cease-fire was violated. Envoys from the warring factions have also been dispatched to regional capitals in search of potential resolutions.
The conflict has taken a toll on Sudan’s population, with warplanes reportedly targeting residential areas. Civilian casualties, including children, have been reported, although the exact figures remain unconfirmed. Diplomatic missions in the capital have been attacked or looted, leading many to suspend their operations.
Sudan is grappling with immense humanitarian needs, as more than half of its population, approximately 25 million people, rely on aid. The western region of Darfur has been particularly affected, with the United States reporting a death toll of up to 1,100 in the state capital, El Geneina. The Doctors Without Borders charity has issued an urgent plea for additional resources to support the influx of patients, including gunshot victims, in neighboring Chad.
