Sudanese military leaders and the Rapid Support Forces are close to signing a humanitarian ceasefire after intense talks in Cairo. Backed by the United States and Egypt, this push comes amid rising pressure to end the conflict that has ravaged Sudan since 2023, killing thousands and displacing millions.
Background of the Sudan Conflict
The war in Sudan erupted in April 2023 between the Sudanese Armed Forces, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the Rapid Support Forces, commanded by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti. What started as a power struggle over the transition to civilian rule has turned into a brutal civil war.
Fighting has destroyed cities, triggered famine warnings, and caused a massive refugee crisis. Over 10 million people have fled their homes, according to United Nations reports from 2025. Recent clashes in El Fasher, a key city in Darfur, led to hundreds of deaths last week, prompting fresh calls for peace.
International observers note that foreign powers, including those in the Middle East and Africa, have fueled the conflict by supplying arms and support to both sides. This has complicated efforts to broker peace until now.
Details of the Proposed Truce
The latest proposal calls for a three-month humanitarian ceasefire to allow aid delivery and start broader talks. Sources indicate that negotiations in Cairo over the past two days have focused on this initial step.
Under the plan, both sides would halt fighting, open routes for food and medicine, and begin discussions on a permanent truce. A joint executive authority could form to guide Sudan through a three-year transition back to civilian rule.
This builds on earlier talks in Washington, which stalled but laid groundwork for the current momentum. The deal aims to address immediate needs like feeding starving populations in war-torn areas.
- Key elements of the truce include safe passage for humanitarian convoys.
- Monitoring by international observers to ensure compliance.
- Provisions for displaced people to return safely.
Talks have involved indirect communication between Burhan and Hemedti, with mediators shuttling proposals. While no final signature has happened yet, insiders say an agreement could come within days.
Role of US and Egypt in Negotiations
The United States has taken a leading role, proposing the truce framework and pushing for quick action after the El Fasher massacres. Egypt, sharing a border with Sudan, hosts the talks in Cairo and provides logistical support.
Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates join as part of a “Quad” group coordinating efforts. Their involvement stems from past mediation attempts, like the 2023 Jeddah talks that briefly paused fighting.
Egypt’s foreign minister has urged an immediate truce to protect Sudan’s unity and resources. US officials emphasize the need for a path to elections and stability.
This collaboration highlights how regional and global powers are aligning to end the war, which threatens to destabilize the entire Horn of Africa.
| Country | Role in Negotiations | Key Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| United States | Lead proposer | Drafted three-month ceasefire plan and pressured both sides |
| Egypt | Host nation | Provided venue in Cairo and diplomatic facilitation |
| Saudi Arabia | Quad member | Experience from prior Jeddah talks |
| United Arab Emirates | Quad member | Support for humanitarian aid logistics |
Challenges and Potential Roadblocks
Despite progress, hurdles remain. Both sides have broken previous ceasefires, leading to skepticism among Sudanese civilians and aid groups.
Trust issues run deep, with accusations of war crimes on all fronts. The RSF’s control of areas like El Fasher complicates withdrawals, while the military demands full disarmament.
External factors, such as arms flows from neighboring countries, could derail the process. Analysts warn that without strict enforcement, the truce might collapse like others before it.
Public sentiment in Sudan is mixed. Many welcome peace but fear it won’t address root causes like corruption and inequality that sparked the 2019 revolution.
Ongoing famine risks, with over 25 million people facing acute hunger as per 2025 World Food Programme data, add urgency. A failed truce could worsen this crisis.
International pressure might help, but local buy-in is crucial for lasting peace.
Humanitarian Impact and Global Response
The conflict has created one of the world’s worst humanitarian disasters. Aid organizations report that blockades have prevented food from reaching millions, leading to starvation deaths.
A successful truce could save lives by reopening supply lines. Groups like Doctors Without Borders are ready to scale up operations if fighting stops.
Globally, reactions are hopeful. The African Union and United Nations have endorsed the talks, calling for inclusive dialogue that involves civilians and women.
Recent events, such as the 2025 escalation in Darfur, have galvanized support. Donors have pledged more funds, but delivery depends on safe access.
Experts suggest this could be a turning point, similar to how international mediation helped end conflicts in other African nations.
What Happens Next for Sudan
If the truce holds, negotiations would expand to include political parties and civil society for a broader peace deal. The goal is a civilian-led government by 2028, with elections to follow.
Monitoring teams from the Quad nations would oversee compliance, reporting violations to the UN Security Council.
Sudanese people hope this ends the nightmare, but rebuilding will take years. Economic recovery, with GDP down 40 percent since the war started, is a priority.
Share your thoughts on this potential breakthrough in the comments below, and spread the word to raise awareness about Sudan’s plight.
