As of October 2024, the civil war in Sudan has intensified following a major offensive by the Sudanese Armed Forces against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces. Eighteen months into the conflict, over 20,000 people have died, and more than 10.8 million have been displaced. Ceasefire attempts have failed as both factions remain entrenched in their rivalry, complicating efforts for peace amidst worsening humanitarian conditions.
As of October 2024, the civil war in Sudan has escalated dramatically after a period of relative quiet. The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) initiated a significant offensive against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on September 26, reigniting hostilities in key areas such as Khartoum and Bahri. Eighteen months into the conflict, the United Nations reports that the death toll has surpassed 20,000, while the International Organization for Migration has noted over 10.8 million internally displaced persons (IDPs). Despite nine rounds of unsuccessful ceasefire negotiations led predominantly by the United States and Saudi Arabia, hostilities continue unabated. The war’s origins can be traced to a power struggle between the leaders of the two military factions: Abdel Fattah al-Burhan of the SAF and Hamdan Dagalo of the RSF. Tensions manifested initially in the capital but have now spread across significant regions, with both sides accused of committing numerous war crimes, including sexual violence and extrajudicial killings. The humanitarian situation has deteriorated, with famine conditions reported in various camps and millions facing acute food insecurity, exacerbated by seasonal floods and disease outbreaks. The protraction of this conflict is attributed to several factors, including both factions’ desires for territorial control and legitimacy. The SAF asserts its claim to governance backed, to an extent, by UN recognition. Conversely, the RSF challenges this narrative, holding strategic positions in numerous conflict zones and seeking alliances with other Arab nations. The embargo on arms since the Darfur crisis has failed to curtail the influx of weapons, with reports indicating the use of advanced military technology sourced from foreign nations. Furthermore, the ethnic dimensions of the conflict complicate the situation, as alliances have formed along ethnic lines, exacerbating violence, particularly against non-Arab communities in Darfur. External involvement, including alleged support for the RSF from the UAE and Russia, perpetuates the conflict by providing its participants with resources essential for warfare. Efforts for peace have faltered, with key international players striving to mediate an agreement but facing challenges arising from limited media coverage, restricted access to conflict zones, and the fractured nature of warring factions. The potential for further regional instability looms large as over two million refugees have fled to neighboring countries, creating additional humanitarian burdens that may spill over into wider international concerns. Thus, the uncertainty of Sudan’s future continues as both military factions remain entrenched in rivalry, with little hope for a peaceful resolution in the near term. The mounting casualties, humanitarian crises, and regional implications suggest that unless new diplomatic strategies are employed, the drawn-out conflict may lead to further national fragmentation akin to that observed in other war-torn nations.
The civil war in Sudan, ignited by a power struggle between the SAF and the RSF, has been ongoing for over eighteen months. The conflict’s escalation in September 2024 marks a critical point in a war that has already significantly impacted the civilian population with casualties and extensive displacement. Historical grievances and ethnic tensions have further complicated the war, as both factions engage in violent confrontations with international ramifications. Furthermore, the ongoing humanitarian crises have prompted urgent calls for effective diplomatic interventions to alleviate the suffering of millions affected by the war in Sudan.
In conclusion, the civil war in Sudan exemplifies a complex crisis characterized by significant military rivalry and a deteriorating humanitarian landscape. Despite extensive efforts, peace negotiations have consistently failed, leading to a prolonged conflict with widespread violence and disarray. The involvement of multiple regional actors and unresolved ethnic tensions signifies a continued tumultuous path ahead for Sudan, necessitating urgent and effective international diplomatic strategies to mitigate further unrest and suffering among the Sudanese populace.
Original Source: www.thehindu.com
