U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has called for an urgent end to the war in Sudan during a phone conversation with Sudanese army chief General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan. The State Department reported that Blinken emphasized the need for unhindered humanitarian access to alleviate the suffering of the Sudanese people.
Call for Humanitarian Access
During the call, Blinken and Burhan discussed the importance of enabling cross-border and cross-line humanitarian aid. Sudan has been embroiled in a civil war since April 2023, pitting the Sudanese army, led by Burhan, against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), commanded by Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo. Thousands of civilians have reportedly died in the conflict.
Blinken highlighted the necessity of resuming peace negotiations and protecting civilians, particularly in al-Fashir, North Darfur. Recent attacks in this region have disrupted a local truce that had previously shielded it from the broader conflict. The U.S. Secretary of State stressed that restoring peace and security in these areas is crucial for the well-being of the population.
Egypt to Host Peace Conference
In a related development, Egypt announced plans to host a conference next month, bringing together Sudan’s civilian political groups along with regional and global parties. The Egyptian foreign ministry stated that the conference aims to broker an agreement among Sudan’s civilian factions to build a comprehensive and permanent peace.
The ministry emphasized that the conference seeks to produce tangible steps towards peace, addressing the root causes of the conflict and ensuring long-term stability in Sudan.Â
The State Department reiterated the U.S. commitment to supporting Sudan in its quest for peace and stability. Blinken’s call to General Burhan reflects ongoing international efforts to mitigate the humanitarian crisis and bring an end to the hostilities that have devastated the country.
The U.S. has been actively involved in diplomatic efforts to resolve the Sudanese conflict, emphasizing the need for a political solution that includes all stakeholders. The upcoming conference in Egypt represents a critical step in these efforts, providing a platform for dialogue and negotiation among Sudanese groups.
The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, with hopes that the combined efforts of regional and global powers will lead to a sustainable resolution. The humanitarian impact of the conflict remains a primary concern, with organizations pushing for immediate access to deliver aid to those affected by the fighting.
Future Prospects
As Sudan navigates its complex political landscape, the role of international diplomacy remains pivotal. The involvement of neighboring countries like Egypt underscores the regional dimension of the conflict and the necessity of a collaborative approach to peacebuilding.
The success of the peace conference and subsequent negotiations will be crucial in determining Sudan’s future. The resolution of this conflict holds significant implications for the broader stability of the Horn of Africa, highlighting the importance of sustained international engagement.
As these diplomatic initiatives unfold, the world watches with cautious optimism, hoping for a breakthrough that will end the suffering of millions and pave the way for lasting peace.
Source: ReutersÂ
