The conflict in Sudan has reached a critical level, with former prime minister Abdalla Hamdok warning that it could become worse than the wars in Syria and Libya if it continues. The Sudanese army is attacking the capital Khartoum from all directions, using heavy artillery, and almost two weeks of fighting has left hundreds dead and tens of thousands fleeing the country. Despite diplomatic efforts by neighbouring countries, as well as the US, UK, and UN, the 72-hour ceasefire extension has not held, with reports of air, tank, and artillery strikes continuing in parts of Khartoum.
Speaking at a conference in Nairobi, Mr Hamdok called for a unified international effort to persuade the Sudanese military leader and the head of a rival paramilitary force to hold peace talks. He emphasized the need for urgent action, stating that the conflict was not just between an army and a small rebellion but almost like two well-trained and well-armed armies.
The fighting broke out on 15 April due to a bitter power struggle between the regular army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Army commander Gen Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and RSF chief Gen Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo disagree about the country’s proposed move to civilian rule and, in particular, the timeframe of the 100,000-strong RSF’s inclusion into the army.
The violence has left millions of people trapped in Khartoum, where there are shortages of food, water, and fuel. The army has urged people to remain indoors and stay away from windows as it deploys tanks and other artillery in an effort to recapture areas held by the RSF. Violence is also reported to have been particularly bad in El Geneina, a city in Darfur in western Sudan, with claims that militia groups have looted and torched markets.
Hemedti, the RSF chief, has told the BBC that he will not negotiate until the bombing stops. He blames army chief Gen Abdel Fattah al-Burhan for the violence and says his fighters are being relentlessly bombed since the truce was extended. Despite the chaotic scenes in Port Sudan, where people are desperate to board ships, the UK government said it was winding up its evacuation efforts on Saturday evening.
The situation is dire, and there is an urgent need for a unified international effort to bring peace to Sudan. With millions trapped and facing shortages, it is imperative that the international community steps up to protect the people of Sudan and put an end to the fighting.