Sudan's Rapid Support Forces Agrees to U.S.-Led Humanitarian Ceasefire Proposal
Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) declared on Thursday that they have accepted a humanitarian ceasefire proposal from the United States, in collaboration with Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This acceptance comes after an 18-month siege of the city of El-Fasher, the last Sudanese military stronghold in the western Darfur region. However, the ceasefire proposal was immediately rejected by the Sudanese army.
The Background
Sudan has been in a state of civil war for over two years, resulting in catastrophic humanitarian consequences. During this period, the RSF has been accused of committing apparent war crimes, including mass civilian killings, resulting in mounting international criticism. This ceasefire proposal aims to address the widespread death and famine that has spread across the region due to the conflict.
The Ceasefire Proposal
The ceasefire proposal was initiated by the United States and backed by Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, collectively known as the Quad. The RSF's agreement to the proposal comes more than a week after the group seized El-Fasher city, which had been under siege for over 18 months. The RSF stated that it is open to negotiations for the complete interruption of hostilities.
Despite this acceptance, the Sudanese army immediately rejected the ceasefire. Both the RSF and the Sudanese army have previously agreed to various ceasefire proposals during their two-and-a-half-year-old war, though none have been successful.
International Reactions
The international community, including the United States, has been working actively towards ending the fighting in Sudan. This latest proposal represents a concerted effort from the Quad to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis. However, the immediate rejection of the ceasefire by the Sudanese army raises questions about the feasibility of such proposals and the potential for ongoing violence.
Current Status
The acceptance of the ceasefire proposal by the RSF represents a potentially significant development in the ongoing Sudanese civil war. However, the immediate rejection of the ceasefire by the Sudanese army indicates that the road to peace may be longer and more complex than hoped. With the international community actively engaged in seeking a resolution, the coming weeks will likely be crucial in determining the future trajectory of the conflict.
The RSF's commitment to the ceasefire and openness to talks on a cessation of hostilities could signify a turning point in the conflict. However, the immediate rejection by the Sudanese army underscores the complexity of the situation and the challenges that lie ahead in achieving a lasting and meaningful peace.