Geneva Talks: A New Hope for Ceasefire in Sudan
In Geneva, Switzerland, discussions commenced yesterday aimed at establishing a ceasefire in Sudan amid ongoing conflict. The United States is mediating these talks, although the Sudanese government has opted not to participate. Since April 15, 2023, battles between the army led by Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and the Rapid Support Forces led by Muhammad Hamdan Dagalo (Hemedti) have resulted in approximately 18,800 deaths and nearly 10 million displaced individuals according to the United Nations. The humanitarian crisis has been compounded by heavy rainfall, obstructing relief efforts and leaving many in dire need of assistance.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens Amidst Ongoing Conflict
The humanitarian situation in Sudan has reached critical levels, with infrastructure losses estimated at over $150 billion. The Rapid Support Forces have been accused of blocking aid access, particularly in the states of Al-Jazira and Sinnar. The recent talks aim to address these humanitarian needs, but disagreements persist regarding the entry points for aid distribution. While the Sudanese government has opened the Adre crossing with Chad for three months, the Rapid Support insists on using this route, complicating relief efforts further.
Future of Negotiations Uncertain Without Sudanese Government
Despite the absence of the Sudanese government in the Geneva negotiations, representatives from the Rapid Support Forces and various international observers, including the African Union and Egypt, are present. A joint statement from the participating nations emphasizes a commitment to cease hostilities and ensure compliance with previous agreements made in Jeddah. However, the future of these negotiations remains uncertain as the U.S. seeks to persuade the Sudanese government to join the discussions, highlighting the complexities of international diplomacy in conflict resolution.
