Sudan’s Army Announces Readiness for Peace Talks Amid Ongoing War

UPDATE: In a significant development, Sudan’s Sovereignty Council Leader, Abdel Fattah al Burhan, has announced that the Sudanese Army is ready for negotiations to restore peace and unity in the war-torn nation. His remarks, delivered in Atbara on Saturday, come just ahead of crucial Quartet meetings in New York aimed at seeking a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict.

Burhan emphasized the need for dialogue to “end the war and restore Sudan’s unity and dignity.” However, he clarified that no formal discussions are currently taking place with the Quartet or any other parties. While addressing the family of a fallen army officer, Muzammil Abdullah, killed in recent fighting in Al Fasher, he reaffirmed the army’s commitment to combatting the enemy, stating, “We will keep fighting the enemy wherever it is found.”

Despite the call for peace talks, Burhan declared that “imposing peace or a government on the people against their will is unacceptable.” This statement highlights the ongoing tensions within Sudan as the army faces the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), who have been engaged in fierce combat since April 2023. The conflict has resulted in over 20,000 deaths and displaced more than 14 million people, according to reports from the UN and local authorities. Some estimates from US universities suggest the death toll could be as high as 130,000.

As the situation unfolds, the upcoming Quartet meetings in New York are poised to be pivotal in shaping the future of Sudan. The international community is keenly watching how these discussions may influence the trajectory of the conflict, which has already devastated countless lives.

The formation of a parallel government led by RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo adds another layer of complexity to the situation. The Sudanese Founding Alliance, a coalition associated with the RSF, made this announcement in July, further complicating the prospects for a unified government.

With the humanitarian crisis escalating and the war showing no signs of abating, the urgency for a peaceful solution has never been more critical. The eyes of the world are now focused on New York as leaders gather to address this pressing issue.

Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as more information becomes available.