DUBAI: The Sudanese army has halted negotiations over a ceasefire and the facilitation of humanitarian access, according to a diplomatic source from Sudan. This development has sparked fears of a potential escalation of violence in the region.
The talks, which involved the rival paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), commenced in early May and had resulted in a declaration of commitments to protect civilians. Additionally, two short-term ceasefire agreements were reached, but unfortunately, these deals were repeatedly violated.
In a last-minute decision, the army and the RSF agreed to extend a week-long ceasefire by five days, which was scheduled to expire late on Monday. However, the suspension of talks has cast doubt on the future of the truce.
The ceasefire was brokered and remotely monitored by Saudi Arabia and the United States. Despite violations from both sides, the truce has allowed for the delivery of vital aid to approximately 2 million people affected by the conflict.
The protracted war in Sudan has forced nearly 1.4 million individuals to flee their homes, with over 350,000 seeking refuge in neighboring countries. The capital city has witnessed widespread looting, frequent disruptions to essential services such as power and water supplies, and the closure of most hospitals.
Nearly 1.4mln Sudanese Flee Homes
In response to the deteriorating situation, some United Nations agencies, aid organizations, embassies, and parts of Sudan’s central government have relocated their operations to Port Sudan, situated in Sudan’s Red Sea state, a region that has experienced relatively little unrest.
The ruling council in Sudan had been led by military and RSF leaders following the ousting of former President Omar Al-Bashir during a popular uprising in 2019. However, a coup took place in 2021 when the military and RSF leaders were expected to hand over leadership to civilians. The dispute arose due to disagreements over the chain of command and the restructuring of the RSF as part of the planned transition.
The suspension of ceasefire talks raises concerns about the fragile stability in Sudan. Efforts from international actors and regional powers will be crucial in encouraging all parties to return to the negotiating table to find a peaceful resolution and prevent further bloodshed.
