Sudan’s warring factions have reengaged in negotiations hosted by Saudi Arabia with the aim of bringing an end to a protracted and devastating war that has plagued the nation since April. The conflict has resulted in a tragic loss of over 9,000 lives and the displacement of approximately 5.6 million people.
The ongoing hostilities have primarily pitted forces loyal to army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan against those commanded by his former deputy, Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, who leads the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The repercussions of this internal strife have been profound, leading to the severe destabilization of the nation.
Mediation efforts have been brokered by the United States and Saudi Arabia, but their impact has been limited, manifesting primarily as brief truces that were frequently violated by the conflicting parties.
On October 25, the warring factions made the significant decision to accept an invitation to resume peace negotiations. These talks are being conducted “in partnership” with the involvement of representatives from the African Union and the East African bloc’s Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD). The IGAD delegation is led by Kenya, a close partner of the United States.
Saudi Arabia, the host of these crucial talks, expressed its welcome for the negotiations’ resumption. The kingdom underscored the importance of both sides adhering to a prior agreement announced on May 11, which aimed to protect civilians, along with a short-term ceasefire pact inked on May 20.
In its statement, Saudi Arabia emphasized its commitment to unity among the negotiating parties as a means to halt the bloodshed and alleviate the profound suffering endured by the Sudanese people.
The international community will be closely monitoring these renewed peace talks, with the hope that they will yield a sustainable resolution to the protracted conflict and help Sudan transition towards a more stable and peaceful future.
