On Tuesday, U.S. President Joe Biden called for the immediate resumption of negotiations between Sudan’s warring parties to bring an end to a conflict that has severely impacted the country for over 17 months.
In a statement, Biden urged all parties involved to halt hostilities for the sake of Sudan’s future. However, his remarks highlighted the need for General al-Burhan’s Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), which have been engaged in brutal campaigns, to show restraint and prioritize peace.
The U.S. President emphasized the importance of both SAF and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in recommitting to peace efforts and ensuring unhindered humanitarian access to assist Sudanese civilians affected by the fighting.
The conflict, which erupted on April 15, 2023, following a breakdown in power-sharing arrangements between SAF and the RSF, has claimed over 12,000 lives.
Despite initially working together to stabilize the country, tensions within the SAF leadership led to the current devastating war, which has particularly harmed civilian populations.
Biden expressed concerns over the widespread violence, particularly condemning indiscriminate airstrikes conducted by SAF, which have disproportionately affected civilians and critical infrastructure. While he called for both parties to end the violence, his message notably pointed out the aggressive escalation tactics used by the SAF.
In recent months, the U.S. has sanctioned 16 individuals and entities linked to the conflict, including those tied to SAF operations. Biden reiterated the importance of continued investigations into war crimes and left open the possibility of additional sanctions targeting those obstructing peace efforts.
While the international community remains concerned about the situation, many hope that with pressure, the RSF’s calls for a peaceful solution will gain traction.
The RSF, under the leadership of General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, continues to emphasize its commitment to protecting civilians and fostering a peaceful transition in Sudan, despite the challenges posed by SAF’s military aggression.
