Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has agreed to a US-led proposal for a humanitarian ceasefire, aiming to bring relief to millions of people affected by the country’s devastating conflict.
The announcement comes less than two weeks after the RSF seized control of the famine-stricken city of al-Fashir, consolidating its grip on the western Darfur region.
The RSF stated that it looks forward to implementing the agreement and commencing discussions on arrangements for a cessation of hostilities and the fundamental principles guiding Sudan’s political process.
This development follows a proposal by the United States, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Egypt in September for a three-month humanitarian truce, to be followed by a permanent ceasefire.
However, the Sudanese army has not yet responded to the proposal, with influential leaders and allies within the army expressing disapproval.
The US State Department has urged both sides to move forward with the humanitarian truce, emphasizing the urgent need to de-escalate violence and end the suffering of the Sudanese people.
The conflict between the Sudanese army and the RSF erupted in April 2023, resulting in tens of thousands of deaths, widespread hunger, and millions displaced.
Witnesses have accused the RSF of killing and abducting civilians during and after the capture of al-Fashir, prompting international concern. The RSF leader has called on fighters to protect civilians and vowed to prosecute any violations.
