In brief
In a significant development from Sudan, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have announced their agreement to a humanitarian ceasefire proposed by the United States, following the recent capture of el-Fasher. The ongoing conflict has led to severe humanitarian crises, with mass starvation reported in the region. While the military-led government has yet to respond, the RSF aims to facilitate urgent aid delivery and address the catastrophic consequences of war. Reports of systematic killings during the RSF's recent takeover raise concerns about the group's actions, but they have pledged to investigate violations committed by their members.
Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has agreed to a proposal from the US for a humanitarian ceasefire, the group said on Thursday.
Sudan's military-led government has not yet responded. The RSF issued the statement after seizing the city of el-Fasher in the western Darfur region.
The RSF's 18-month siege blocked humanitarian aid despite repeated UN appeals, causing starvation among residents unable to flee. A UN-backed global hunger monitor has confirmed famine conditions in the city.
The RSF has been facing an international backlash over reports of mass killings by its foot soldiers, which it has denied. However, it has admitted violations were committed by individuals and arrested some.
Civil war broke out between Sudan's army and the RSF in April 2023. Both parties have agreed to various ceasefire proposals during the war, though none have stuck.
On Tuesday, the RSF's announcement came after an aid organization warned that a network of community kitchens was on the verge of collapse in Sudan, exacerbating the world's largest humanitarian crisis.
In September, the US along with the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt proposed a three-month humanitarian truce, followed by a permanent ceasefire and a transition to civilian rule.
The RSF's statement emphasized their readiness to enter the truce to address the catastrophic humanitarian consequences of the conflict and to allow for the urgent delivery of aid.
Despite the ceasefire announcement, Sudan's Defence Minister expressed that preparations for battle against the RSF were ongoing, aligning with the military's stance to disband the RSF before halting hostilities.
