Post by : Rameen Ariff

In a pivotal turn of events, Sudan’s paramilitary group, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), declared their acceptance of a humanitarian ceasefire proposal initiated by the United States and Arab nations. This agreement includes a willingness to participate in discussions aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict with the Sudanese army.

The RSF’s announcement on Thursday highlights a rare glimmer of hope amidst a two-and-a-half-year war that has devastated Sudan, resulted in tens of thousands of fatalities, and led to the displacement of millions. Although the Sudanese army has not publicly commented yet, insiders indicate that leading military figures are hesitant regarding the proposal.

The RSF stated that they “look forward to executing the agreement and promptly initiating talks on the terms for a halt in hostilities and on the core principles directing Sudan's political process.”

The U.S. State Department has confirmed that Washington is actively engaging both parties to support the ceasefire initiative. A spokesperson urged both factions to heed the US-led endeavor to establish a humanitarian truce, highlighting the urgent need to alleviate the distress faced by the Sudanese populace.

Increased Calls for Peace

The proposal, which has garnered support from the United States, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Egypt, seeks a three-month humanitarian ceasefire followed by negotiations for a long-term truce. This comes at a juncture when hostilities have escalated in Darfur, particularly following the RSF's takeover of El Fasher, a city grappling with famine in western Sudan.

Eyewitnesses reported civilian casualties and kidnappings during and after the takeover, prompting international alarm. In light of this, RSF leaders have called on their forces to ensure the safety of civilians and promised accountability for those committing violations.

A Nation in Turmoil

The conflict erupted in April 2023, sparked by rising tensions between the RSF and the Sudanese army, which were once comrades in governance, due to disagreements about merging forces under a single command. This strife has plunged Sudan into a severe humanitarian crisis, displacing millions and putting many on the verge of starvation.

While prior ceasefire attempts have failed, experts suggest that the latest U.S. supported effort could mark a critical shift if both sides engage in genuine dialogue and exercise restraint.

As Sudan approaches yet another crucial moment, the global community is watching closely, hopeful that the prospect of peace can ultimately replace the echoes of gunfire.

#Global News #World