The United States is intensifying pressure on Sudan’s military to join ongoing peace talks in Geneva as the country grapples with a deepening humanitarian catastrophe.
Despite international pleas, the military has thus far refused to participate in the negotiations, which entered their third day on Friday.
The conflict between Al Burhan’s army (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has plunged the nation into chaos since April 2023.
The RSF has sent a delegation to Geneva, while Al Burhan’s army has remained absent.
“The RSF remains here ready for talks to start; SAF needs to decide to come,” said US Special Envoy for Sudan Tom Perriello.
Diplomatic efforts to mediate the conflict involve representatives from Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, the African Union, and the United Nations.
In a glimmer of hope, Sudan’s military-led governing council announced the reopening of the key border crossing at Adre, connecting Chad to the war-torn Darfur region.
While this move has been welcomed by the UN and the US, concerns remain about its impact on aid delivery, particularly with ongoing flooding hampering access.
The humanitarian situation in Sudan is dire, with civilians bearing the brunt of the violence.
The conflict has triggered a massive displacement crisis, with over 10.7 million people forced from their homes.
The UN and international human rights groups have documented widespread atrocities, including mass rape and ethnic killings, which constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Experts warn that the situation is rapidly deteriorating, with famine declared in one Darfur camp and millions facing acute hunger.
