Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces Welcome UN Call for Ramadan Ceasefire
The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary group in Sudan has welcomed a recent call by the United Nations Security Council for a cessation of hostilities during the upcoming Muslim holy month of Ramadan. This call offers a glimmer of hope for a potential respite from the 11-month-old conflict that has plagued the nation.
Ramadan, a time of fasting, prayer, and reflection for Muslims around the world, is expected to begin on Sunday evening. The RSF expressed optimism that the Security Council resolution will help alleviate the suffering of the Sudanese people by facilitating the smooth delivery of humanitarian aid. Additionally, they hope that this ceasefire will pave the way for a political process that could ultimately lead to a permanent ceasefire in the region.
The conflict in Sudan erupted on April 15, 2023, between the Sudanese army and the RSF. The United Nations reports that nearly 25 million people in Sudan, half of the country’s population, are in need of humanitarian assistance. Approximately 8 million individuals have been forced to flee their homes, and hunger is on the rise. The United States has accused both parties involved in the conflict of committing war crimes.
In an effort to address the crisis in Sudan, the US special envoy to Sudan, Tom Perriello, will embark on a diplomatic mission to several countries in Africa and the Middle East from March 11 to 25. The State Department has emphasized that this trip underscores the administration’s commitment to ending the conflict in Sudan, meeting the urgent humanitarian needs of the Sudanese people, and working towards establishing a civilian, democratic government in the country.
During his travels, Perriello will visit Uganda, Ethiopia, Djibouti, Kenya, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. These visits are intended to strengthen diplomatic ties and garner support for efforts to bring about peace and stability in Sudan.
The Security Council recently adopted a resolution drafted by Britain calling for a cessation of hostilities during Ramadan. However, there is still uncertainty surrounding how this resolution will be implemented on the ground. Sudan’s UN ambassador, Al-Harith Idriss Al-Harith Mohamed, acknowledged the appeal made by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres for a Ramadan truce but expressed concerns about the logistics of enforcing such a ceasefire.
In response to these developments, the RSF has indicated its willingness to engage in discussions regarding the establishment of monitoring mechanisms that are mutually agreed upon. These mechanisms are seen as essential for ensuring the effective implementation of the ceasefire and achieving the humanitarian objectives outlined in the Security Council resolution.
As Sudan prepares to observe Ramadan, there is cautious optimism that this period of reflection and spiritual renewal may also bring about a temporary reprieve from the violence and suffering that have plagued the country for far too long. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely and stands ready to support efforts to bring about lasting peace and stability in Sudan.