The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) of Sudan announced on Thursday their agreement to a humanitarian ceasefire proposal put forward by the United States. This development follows the RSF's seizure of the city of el-Fasher in the western Darfur region. Sudan's military-led government has not yet issued a response to the RSF's statement.
Ceasefire Proposal and RSF's Position
The RSF's acceptance of the truce proposal, which was also supported by the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt, aims to address the severe humanitarian impact of the ongoing conflict and facilitate the urgent delivery of aid. The group also indicated its readiness for discussions to end hostilities and establish a framework for a just and lasting peace. Civil war between Sudan's army and the RSF commenced in April 2023. Multiple previous ceasefire agreements have not been sustained by either party.
Sudanese Government's Stance
Prior to the RSF's announcement, Sudan's Defence Minister, Hassan Kabroun, acknowledged US efforts for peace while emphasizing the government's ongoing preparations for military action against the RSF. Separately, Sudan's chargé d'affaires in Nairobi, Mohamed Osman Akasha, stated that the military-led government would only agree to a halt in fighting if the RSF were dismantled, surrendered its weaponry, and its leader was held accountable. He further indicated a lack of information regarding a truce proposal, reiterating the government's determination to defeat the militia.
Humanitarian Crisis in El-Fasher and Beyond
The capture of el-Fasher concluded an 18-month siege during which humanitarian aid access was reportedly obstructed, leading to confirmed famine conditions by a UN-backed global hunger monitor. Over 60,000 individuals have reportedly fled el-Fasher since its capture. Reports from survivors to the BBC detailed systematic killings and torture by RSF fighters during their takeover of the city. RSF leader General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo initiated an investigation into alleged "violations" by his soldiers in el-Fasher and released footage purporting to show the arrest of an accused fighter. The UN Human Rights Council is scheduled to hold an urgent session on the situation in el-Fasher on November 14.
An aid organization, Islamic Relief, has warned that a network of community kitchens, which serve as crucial lifelines in inaccessible areas, faces imminent collapse due to resource shortages and volunteer exhaustion. It is estimated that most of these kitchens, vital for millions affected by the civil war, could cease operations within six months. The United Nations has characterized the conflict in Sudan as the world's largest humanitarian crisis, with estimates indicating that more than 24 million people are experiencing acute food shortages.