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US Sanctions Sudan Over Alleged 2024 Chemical Weapons Use Triggering Global Alarm

June 28, 2025, 9:13 pm

United States slapped fresh sanctions on Sudan’s government on Friday, accusing it of deploying chemical weapons in its continued fighting against opposing paramilitary groups. The action follows a formal determination by the State Department in May that Sudan had broken the Chemical Weapons Convention, to which it has been a signatory since 1999.

The charges follow Sudan’s civil war, which in April 2023 broke out between the national army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The US government once blamed the RSF for genocide during the war. In January, it stated that Sudan’s army had used chlorine gas in at least two attacks in 2024, reportedly with the sanction of army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan.

While Washington has not made public the locations and dates of the attacks, Sudan’s government brushed aside the charges as “baseless” and termed them as “political blackmail.” The sanctions, which were to come into force on June 6, cover US exports as well as financial dealings with Sudan. But humanitarian assistance would be exempted, given that almost 25 million people in Sudan are suffering from acute food insecurity.

Sudan has a past history of purported chemical weapon use. Amnesty International in 2016 accused the military at the time allied with the RSF of conducting chemical attacks on civilians in Darfur, which Khartoum also rejected. The US bombed Sudan’s Al-Shifa pharmaceutical factory in 1998 for suspected connection to chemical weapons and al-Qaeda.

As a result of the 2019 overthrow of long-time leader Omar al-Bashir, the US removed various sanctions. These were restored following a 2021 coup d’etat by Burhan and his then-deputy Mohamed Hamdan Daglo (Hemedti). Both groups have become more prosperous despite sanctions, as Sudan descends further into humanitarian crisis. The UN estimates more than 10 million internally displaced and famine sweeping across the country.

Sudan’s New PM Shakes Up Power, Dissolves Caretaker Government Amid Drone Strikes

June 2, 2025, 2:42 am

Sudan’s new Prime Minister Kamil Idris dissolved the caretaker government, the first political change since clashes between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) broke out, state media SUNA said late Sunday. The statement did not say when a new government will be established.

Idris, who was sworn in by Sudan’s top leader and military chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, swore the oath of office on Saturday, making him Sudan’s new prime minister since the 2021 coup. During a Sunday address, Idris assured that he would uphold neutrality between political forces and concentrate efforts on restoring stability, security, and rebuilding in the conflict-affected country.

In contrast, the fight escalated as three drone strikes hit RSF positions in Nyala, the South Darfur capital. Witnesses said there were attacks on a hotel, a health center, and RSF-controlled outskirts of the city, and many casualties were taken to local hospitals. RSF has held major areas of Nyala since fighting started in April 2023 between Burhan’s forces and RSF commander Mohamed Hamdan Daglo.

Sudanese forces have stepped up air attacks against RSF positions, such as Nyala airport, a key RSF base. Recent satellite imagery showed RSF was in possession of Chinese-origin drones with long-range monitoring and attack capabilities, fueling fears of foreign backing for the RSF, which does not have an air force. Khartoum has repeatedly accused the United Arab Emirates of providing the drones, which allegations the UAE refute.

The conflict has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and displaced close to 13 million people, about a quarter of Sudan’s population, leaving the nation effectively split between northern and eastern parts controlled by the army and RSF-held lands in Darfur and southern parts.

Sudan Breaks Ties With UAE, Accuses Gulf Ally Of Fuelling Proxy War With Militias

May 6, 2025, 11:27 pm

Sudan’s government aligned with its military announced it has severed diplomatic relations officially with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and designated the Gulf nation an “aggressor.” The move was made public on Tuesday, May 6, through Defence Minister Yassin Ibrahim’s television address, wherein he assured that Sudan will be recalling its ambassador and closing down its embassy and consulate in the UAE.

The move is a serious escalation in Sudan’s internal struggle, which has burned since April 2023 between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Ibrahim alleged that the UAE had acted in contravention of Sudan’s sovereignty by supposedly backing the RSF with cutting-edge arms and logistical support.

For more than two years, the world has seen the UAE’s contribution to weakening Sudan’s territorial integrity and putting its people at risk through its proxy—the terrorist RSF militia,” Ibrahim said. He asserted that Abu Dhabi increased its backing of the RSF after the army’s recent recapture of Khartoum in March.”.

Although Sudan has consistently accused the UAE of supporting the RSF, the UAE has constantly refuted these claims. However, Sudan’s government now indicates that it will respond with all the means at its disposal to protect its sovereignty and defend civilians.

The news followed a wave of drone attacks on Port Sudan, the army’s current stronghold and de facto capital. The attacks, the third consecutive day of bombings, have fueled concerns of spreading zones of conflict.

Sudan’s civil war has already killed tens of thousands of people and displaced approximately 13 million. It has also unleashed an enormous humanitarian crisis, with hunger and instability on the rise. The country is still split, with the army controlling the north, east, and center and the RSF in control of much of Darfur and some of the south.

Sudan Paramilitary Attacks Cause Massive Power Outage in Key City

May 6, 2025, 11:08 pm

Drone attacks have struck a major power plant in the Sudanese city of Port Sudan resulting in a “complete power outage”, the nation’s electricity company stated.

Explosions and Fires Near Airport

Explosions and massive fires have been reported close to the city’s main international airport as a paramilitary force attacked the strategic city for the third day in a row.

Flights have been suspended after drones attacked the international airport and a hotel close to the current presidential palace, reports indicate.

Witnesses Describe the Devastating Scenes

“I can see a large cloud of fire and smoke moving like everywhere around the city. and I have just heard now that there were like two big bangs. It is really apocalyptic-looking,” a reporter, Cristina Karrer, said on a programme.

Black smoke hung over the horizon at sunrise over the once-safe city where tens of thousands of refugees from the two-year conflict have arrived.

Power and Essential Services Disrupted in Sudan

On Tuesday, Sudan’s electricity company indicated that it was evaluating the damage on its substation, which has interfered with the supply of water, health, and other services.

One of the drones hit the civilian part of the Port Sudan airport and another hit the central army base in the middle of the city, witnesses informed AFP news agency.

A third drone hit “a fuel depot close to the southern port” in the highly populated city center, where UN officials, diplomats, aid agencies, and Sudan’s army have moved from the capital Khartoum, AFP reported.

Hotel Targeted in Attack

A large hotel near the home of army head Gen Abdel Fattah al-Burhan was also targeted in the assault, the witness added.

Mariam Atta, a children’s hospital nutritional supervisor in Port Sudan, explained the moment she heard the attacks.

“We woke up to the roar of explosions and were terrified. We had never witnessed an attack before, but we saw the smoke rising, the fire – it was overwhelming.”

When asked whether she feared the attacks might happen again, she said: “Yes, we are afraid, and it’s very likely to happen again. The fear is constant. As long as there’s an intention to target Port Sudan and vital areas, and to intimidate civilians, these attacks will continue.”

UN Halts Aid Flights Temporarily

After the drone strikes, the UN has halted temporarily aid flights to Port Sudan, but normal aid activities remain, stated Farhan Haq, the deputy spokesperson of the UN.

“None of our offices, facilities or warehouses have been affected, and we are still conducting our usual activities,” Mr Haq further added.

On Tuesday, the government of Sudan spokesman Khaled Al-Aiser stated that the military was defending the damaged fuel depots “to the extent possible,” adding that the “will of the Sudanese people will remain unbreakable.”

The army has accused the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) of the drone attacks which began on Sunday. The RSF has yet to issue a comment on the attacks.

In a statement, the African Union cautioned that the attack on Port Sudan was “a dangerous escalation” of the Sudanese civil war and “a direct threat to the lives of civilians, humanitarian access, and regional stability.”

Port Sudan Considered Safe Before Attacks

Before the Sunday attacks, Port Sudan had escaped bombardment and was considered one of the safest locations in the war-torn country.

The paramilitary organization has increasingly used drones to retake its lost territories, such as Khartoum that was recaptured by the army in March.

The two years of conflict between the army and the RSF have claimed thousands of lives, displaced millions, and caused the world’s worst humanitarian crisis. Both the army and RSF are accused of war crimes.

RSF Launches First Drone Strike on Port Sudan, Targets Airbase and Civilian Sites

May 5, 2025, 8:29 am

Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) launched a drone attack on Port Sudan on Sunday. For the first time, the group targeted the Red Sea city, hitting both military and civilian areas.

No Deaths Reported So Far

According to the military, the strike did not result in any deaths. Still, it marked a significant escalation. Port Sudan has acted as the temporary headquarters of the government since the war began more than two years ago.

Military Confirms Damage at Airbase

Brigadier General Nabil Abdullah, the army’s spokesperson, confirmed the strike. He said RSF drones hit an ammunition depot at the Osman Digna airbase, which triggered several explosions. Moreover, the attack also damaged a cargo storage facility and other civilian buildings.

Shortly after the attack, videos surfaced on social media. They showed thick black smoke rising above the airbase. As a result, Port Sudan’s airport suspended flights temporarily, according to the country’s civil aviation authority.

Port Sudan Remains Critical for Travel

Since RSF fighters took control of Khartoum’s main airport at the start of the war, Port Sudan has served as Sudan’s key entry point. Although the military regained control of Khartoum airport earlier this year, the site is still not operational.

RSF Remains Silent

So far, the RSF has not issued a statement about the latest attack. In recent weeks, RSF fighters have increased drone strikes on government-held areas. For example, last month they targeted a major power station in Atbara, a city north of Khartoum known for its railway links.

Military Regains Capital, RSF Expands Elsewhere

Earlier this year, the army reclaimed control of Khartoum. In response, the RSF withdrew to its stronghold in the Darfur region. However, the group advanced in other parts of Sudan. Notably, they captured the country’s largest camp for displaced people in North Darfur and seized a strategic town in West Kordofan.

Satellite Images Reveal Drone Capability

Meanwhile, experts have tracked the RSF’s growing drone arsenal. In April, Yale University’s Humanitarian Research Lab released a report based on satellite imagery. It found six high-grade drones at RSF-controlled Nyala Airport in Darfur. The report noted that these Chinese-made drones “may be capable of long-range surveillance and strikes.”

International Reactions Strong

Several countries condemned the latest attacks. On Sunday, Saudi Arabia denounced RSF strikes “on vital facilities and infrastructure in Port Sudan and Kassala.” Similarly, Egypt warned that such actions weaken “efforts to restore stability” in Sudan.

Analyst Explains RSF Strategy

A retired Sudanese army general spoke to AFP anonymously. He explained the RSF’s intent behind these attacks. “There is no safe place,” he said, referring to the message RSF wants to send. Additionally, he noted the group aims “to halt air traffic” and “impact the armed forces’ supply chain.”

US Halts Visas for South Sudanese After Deportation Policy Clash

April 6, 2025, 9:12 am

The United States has cancelled all visas issued to South Sudanese passport holders. This move comes after South Sudan refused to take back its deported citizens. The ban takes effect immediately.

Trump Administration Cracks Down on Deportation Delays

President Donald Trump‘s administration has taken strict action on immigration. It has focused on sending back people living in the U.S. without permission. Washington has warned that countries refusing to accept deportees will face penalties like visa bans or tariffs.

Rubio Accuses South Sudan of Non-Cooperation

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio explained the reason behind the decision. He said South Sudan had failed to follow the rule that every country must accept its citizens when deported by another nation.

“Effective immediately, the United States Department of State is taking actions to revoke all visas held by South Sudanese passport holders and prevent further issuance to prevent entry into the United States by South Sudanese passport holders,” Rubio said.

He made it clear the U.S. may lift the ban if South Sudan cooperates. “We will be prepared to review these actions when South Sudan is in full cooperation,” he added. Rubio also criticized the South Sudanese leadership. “It is time for South Sudan’s transitional government to stop taking advantage of the United States,” he said. The South Sudanese embassy in Washington has not responded yet.

South Sudan Faces Rising Tensions at Home

At the same time, South Sudan is dealing with political unrest. African Union mediators arrived in the capital, Juba, this week. They are trying to prevent a new civil war.

Last week, the government placed First Vice President Riek Machar under house arrest. President Salva Kiir’s administration has accused Machar of planning a new rebellion. Machar led rebel forces during the civil war from 2013 to 2018. That war killed hundreds of thousands of people.

Fresh Clashes Raise Fears of War

Fighting has recently broken out in the northern Upper Nile state. Government troops have clashed with the White Army militia. This group fought alongside Machar’s forces during the civil war. However, Machar’s side now denies any link to them.

The last civil war was largely based on ethnic conflict. Kiir belongs to the Dinka group, South Sudan’s largest. Machar is from the Nuer group, the second largest.

Sudan’s Army Chief Rejects Peace, Vows To Crush RSF As Military Secures Capital

March 30, 2025, 2:59 am

Sudan’s army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan has dismissed any reconciliation with the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), promising to defeat the forces in an ongoing conflict. In a video message on Saturday, Burhan asserted, “We will neither forgive, nor compromise, nor negotiate,” reiterating the military’s resolve to restore national stability and unity.

But he said RSF combatants who surrender and accept the authority of the military may be offered amnesty, especially in rebel-held areas.

The declaration was made as the Sudanese army announced a big win at Omdurman, capturing Souq Libya, an important business center which the RSF had been using to attack from. The military said it took over arms and other hardware left behind by withdrawing paramilitary forces.

As the army already occupied much of Omdurman, including two large military bases, it now seems intent on taking control of the whole capital area, which includes Khartoum, Omdurman, and Bahri. Although the RSF retains some territory, it has not yet reacted to the army’s most recent advances.

The war broke out over a power struggle between the army and RSF prior to a scheduled handover of power to civilians. The past two years have ravaged Khartoum, forced more than 12 million people from their homes, and driven close to half of Sudan’s 50 million citizens into extreme hunger.

Casualty estimates are still difficult, but one study a year ago estimated that 61,000 individuals had been killed in Khartoum state alone in the first 14 months of conflict. The conflict has also further destabilized the area, fuelling conflicts in other countries around it, including Libya, Chad, the Central African Republic, and South Sudan.

The Role Of Foreign Powers In Sudan’s Conflict: Who Benefits And Who Suffers? | TDG Explainer

March 26, 2025, 3:17 am

Sudan’s civil war, which broke out in April 2023, has not only destroyed the country but also attracted a tangled web of foreign players, each with their own strategic and economic agendas. This foreign intervention has further complicated the conflict, shaping its course and deepening the humanitarian crisis.

The Genesis of the Conflict

The war largely involves the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), commanded by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), led by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, also referred to as Hemedti. Rivalries between the two intensified over issues of transition to civilian government, army integration, and domination of lucrative economic resources. The ensuing struggle for power has caused extensive violence, displacing millions and putting the country into chaos.

Regional Actors and Their Interests

United Arab Emirates (UAE): The UAE has been cited as a major outside actor in Sudan’s civil conflict. There have been reports that the RSF is supplied with weapons by the UAE, while Emirati interests are served by Sudanese gold smuggled to Dubai via Al Gunade and other companies.
Egypt: Egypt has long-standing relations with Sudan and has been supportive of the SAF, in line with its regional stability interest and fear of Islamist group influence. Cairo’s support for the Sudanese military reflects its interest in having a friendly regime in Khartoum.
Saudi Arabia: Saudi Arabia has had a considerable role in Sudan ever since the deposal of ousted President Omar al-Bashir. Riyadh, together with the UAE, helped the Transitional Military Council, the junta which seized power upon Bashir’s ousting, with a $3 billion bailout. Such funding indicates the interest of Saudi Arabia in taking control of the political dynamics in Sudan.

Global Actors and Their Roles

United States: US has deployed diplomatic actions to broker a solution to the crisis, with the goal of enabling a ceasefire and assuring a transition to civilian leadership. Criticisms have arisen, though, that such efforts have not been effective, and that the policies of the US could have actually helped create the crisis through their inability to effectively intervene in the balance of power between the SAF and RSF. Moreover, the United States has offered humanitarian support, committing life-saving programs including shelter and healthcare for Sudan’s most vulnerable citizens.
Russia and Iran: Both countries have been accused of providing drones and other military aid to Sudanese factions, adding fuel to the conflict and making international efforts for peace more complicated.

Humanitarian Implications

The intervention of external powers has deepened the conflict, with devastating humanitarian implications. The war has claimed more than 150,000 lives and displaced 11 million individuals. Hospitals are filled to capacity, malnutrition is widespread, and famine threatens in many areas. Much of the promised assistance from abroad has not been forthcoming, leaving millions in desperate need.

Conclusion

Sudan’s civil war is a grim reminder of the ways in which internal conflicts can become battlegrounds for international power struggles. As foreign powers seek their strategic and economic interests, the Sudanese people suffer the consequences of the ensuing violence and humanitarian crises. Lasting peace can only be achieved by not only resolving the internal cleavages within Sudan but also preventing the negative impacts of external interventions.

Sudan’s Deadliest Airstrike Yet: Hundreds Killed As War Ravages Darfur

March 25, 2025, 9:11 pm

Sudanese monitoring organizations have blamed the Tawur national army for conducting one of the deadliest air raids in the country’s civil war, which hit a rebel-held district in Darfur.

The Emergency Lawyers association, a volunteer legal organization, said the Tora market raid in North Darfur left “hundreds of civilian casualties.” Locals helping in recovery efforts counted at least 270 corpses at the scene.

The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which has nearly complete control over Darfur and is accused of genocide by the US, blamed the military for what it described as a “massacre.” The Sudanese military did not yet react to the charges.

This new assault occurs in the context of the world’s worst crisis, which humanitarian organizations portray, with more than 30 million Sudanese requiring immediate assistance. Of those, 16 million children live in severe destitution, and nearly 1.3 million are living in famine conditions. Over 770,000 children will be hit with severe acute malnutrition this year alone, a condition lethal if left untreated medically.

Sudan’s war broke out in April 2023 as tensions between the military and RSF leadership finally boiled over, extending the violence from Khartoum to Darfur and beyond. The conflict has claimed the lives of at least 20,000 individuals though experts estimate the real number to be far greater and displaced over 14 million.

Darfur, an area of about the same size as France, has witnessed some of the conflict’s worst abuses, such as aerial bombing, paramilitary attacks on refugees, and widespread ethnic fighting. Although the RSF deploys sophisticated drones, the military still has air dominance, often striking RSF-held territory.

With fighting growing, humanitarian organizations are warning that the already critical situation could further decline unless swift international action is secured.

Sudan’s El-Obeid Under Fire For 3rd Day As RSF Shelling Kills 9, Injures Dozens

March 10, 2025, 12:21 am

Paramilitary bombardment on Sunday targeted the strategic Sudanese city of El-Obeid, which resulted in at least nine deaths among civilians and 21 other casualties, according to a medical source.

El-Obeid, the state capital of North Kordofan, was attacked by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which has been in a battle with the Sudanese army since April 2023. Two of the wounded later died, bringing the number of fatalities to rise, a hospital source who identified himself on condition of anonymity for safety reasons said.

Witnesses reported heavy shelling, with a public transport bus full of passengers hit by a single shell. The attack was the third in a row of RSF attacks from the east and north.

Strategic City Under Fire

Last month, Sudan’s army broke a nearly two-year RSF siege on El-Obeid, a crucial city linking the capital Khartoum to the western Darfur region. The RSF now controls almost all of Darfur, while the army holds northern and eastern regions and has recently regained ground in Khartoum and central Sudan.

The conflict, fuelled by a struggle for power between army leader Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and RSF chief Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, has left tens of thousands dead and displaced more than 12 million people, producing one of the worst humanitarian crises on the planet.

Growing Civilian Toll

The conflict, as reported by the United Nations, has claimed over 24,000 lives and displaced over 14 million 30% of Sudan’s total population. It is estimated that 3.2 million Sudanese have crossed the border into neighbouring countries.

The human rights office of the UN stated that more than 4,200 civilians died in 2024 alone, although the number is actually higher.

African Nation Sends Crop Samples to Arctic’s ‘Doomsday’ Vault—Here’s Why

February 25, 2025, 8:17 pm

Sudan, a northeast African nation bordering Egypt, has decided to send crop samples to the “doomsday” vault located on a remote Norwegian island in the Arctic. These samples consist of food crop seeds. But what is the reason behind Sudan’s decision?

The Svalbard Global Seed Vault, commonly known as the “doomsday” vault, is situated deep within a mountain, where artificial caves have been carved out to store and safeguard food crop seeds from across the globe. The vault ensures the preservation of their genetic material in case of a future catastrophe.

Designed to endure a variety of natural and human-made disasters—including floods, blizzards, volcanic eruptions, climate change, wars, and nuclear crises—the vault was established in 2008. Since then, it has functioned as the world’s genetic repository, securing the genetic codes of thousands of crops and plant species.

Situation in Sudan

Although an apocalyptic event has yet to occur, the world continues to witness ongoing conflicts and wars—including in Sudan.

Unlike the widely covered wars in Gaza and Ukraine, Sudan’s civil war has received comparatively less attention, despite the country’s dire situation. The conflict erupted in April 2023 when clashes broke out between the Sudanese Army and the paramilitary group, the Rapid Support Forces.

The war has resulted in the loss of tens of thousands of lives. According to a BBC report, by May 2024, Sudan’s civil war had claimed over 150,000 lives—surpassing the combined death tolls of the wars in Ukraine and Gaza.

In Sudan’s capital, Khartoum alone, more than 61,000 people had reportedly died by October 2024. The conflict has left hundreds of thousands injured and displaced over 12 million people, rendering them homeless. Additionally, more than half of Sudan’s population—approximately 50 million people—are suffering from hunger and severe malnutrition, with famine spreading across multiple regions.

The war’s devastation has not only affected people but also the country’s plants and animals, making the preservation of local crop genetic material crucial. “In Sudan…these seeds represent hope,” stated the director of Sudan’s Agricultural Plant Genetic Resources Conservation and Research Centre.

Sudan is contributing crop samples from 15 different species, including multiple varieties of sorghum, a key crop vital to the nation’s food security and cultural heritage.

Alongside Sudan, several other countries are depositing seeds in the vault for preservation. These include Nordic tree species from Sweden and rice from Thailand.

In total, 14,022 new samples have been added to the collection.

The “doomsday” vault, protected by permafrost, has been receiving seed deposits from around the world since its establishment. Between 2015 and 2019, it played a critical role in restoring seed collections lost during Syria’s war. “The seeds deposited this week represent not just biodiversity, but also the knowledge, culture and resilience of the communities that steward them,” said Crop Trust Executive Director Stefan Schmitz in a statement.

UN Seeks $6B To Tackle Sudan’s Devastating Hunger Crisis Amid War And Displacement

February 18, 2025, 3:17 am

United Nations on Monday requested $6 billion of aid for Sudan in 2025 to alleviate what it says is the world’s most critical hunger crisis, the result of the country’s continued civil war. The request is a 40% hike in funding over last year, a vital call as international aid budgets are coming under increasing strain. The humanitarian crisis in Sudan has been worsened by an announced halt in funding last month by US President Donald Trump, which affected life-saving programs across the globe.

The conflict, which has burned for 22 months between Sudan’s military and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), has displaced one-fifth of the country and left about half of Sudanese facing severe hunger. UN officials predict the situation is to get worse. World Food Programme director Cindy McCain, speaking to diplomats in Geneva, stated, “Sudan is now the epicenter of the world’s largest and most severe hunger crisis ever.”

Famine has already been reported in at least five areas throughout Sudan, including Darfur displacement camps. Collapse of primary services and ongoing battles are contributing to the deteriorating situation. UN Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher emphasized the unprecedented scope of the crisis, requesting an equally unprecedented international response.

UN strategy will support close to 21 million people in Sudan, the largest most ambitious humanitarian program for 2025. $4.2 billion out of the $6 billion will go towards helping those in Sudan, while the rest will go to displaced people. While some of the aid agencies have been given waivers by the US to remain operational, it is still unclear how much of the aid will be available within the country.

Sudanese Army Plans New Government Formation Amid Gains In Khartoum

February 9, 2025, 9:15 pm

Sudan’s military is to start building a new government once it fully recaptures Khartoum, the capital, military sources said on Sunday. The declaration came after army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan vowed to set up a war-time technocratic administration.

Recently, in the Khartoum war, the army has advanced highly and has resulted in the receding of RSF paramilitaries. Although the RSF had previously maintained dominance over the capital, losses are being accrued by them following the increased airstrikes of the expanded airpower for the army forces and reinforcement support from allied militias. The advancing army is thus now near to the presidential palace, which strategically lies on the Nile.

Burhan told reporters in the Port Sudan, which is the military stronghold, that it would be focused on completing the mission related to the armed forces, “We can call it a caretaker government, a wartime government. It will help us complete our mission of liberating Sudan from these rebels,” he said.

Even as the army has gained ground recently, RSF continues to control much of western Sudan and is going on an aggressive consolidation spree in Darfur. The paramilitary group has also declared its support for a rival, civilian-led administration. Burhan ruled out a ceasefire during Ramadan unless RSF puts an end to its campaign in al-Fashir.

The conflict, which erupted in April 2023 over a dispute about the integration of the two forces, has led to one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises. Over 12 million people have been displaced, and half the population faces severe hunger.

Military sources announced that constitutional amendments in the pipeline would eliminate references to civilian partnership, giving the army full authority. Burhan also invited members of the Taqadum coalition to renounce the RSF, promising they would be welcomed back if they did so.

Sudan: 40 Dead, 70 Wounded In Deadly Artillery Attack On South Kordofan Market

February 4, 2025, 3:00 am

At least 40 people were reported killed and 70 others wounded in Monday’s artillery shelling targeting the South Kordofan capital of Kadugli, two medical sources confirm as strife between the Sudanese army and other rival paramilitary forces continued since April 2023.

The attack is suspected to have been conducted by an SPLM-N faction known as that of Abdel Aziz al-Hilu, who is said to have previously rejected a peace agreement signed by the government back in 2020 citing a demand for a secular state. Kadugli city is under the control of the Sudanese army, a presence of the rebel group SPLM-N in the state.

Governor of South Kordofan Mohamed Ibrahim indicted al-Hilu’s group for the effort of destabilizing the region when it initiated a shelling of a local market. According to the governor, this shelling became part of the attack strategy exercised by al-Hilu’s forces on the area, and the SPLM-N groups will be addressed by the clearing of the surrounding mountains of these forces, and Ibrahim vowed so.

South Kordofan violence continues to escalate since the SPLM-N has been fighting against both the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) throughout the entire course of the war, which worsens the humanitarian crisis in Sudan.

Sudan Market Massacre: RSF Attack Leaves 54 Dead As Paramilitary Violence Escalates

February 1, 2025, 9:59 pm

An attack on an open market at Omdurman has killed at least 54 people and left another 158 injured, according to the health ministry of Sudan. The assault by Rapid Support Forces (RSF) into the Sabrein Market occurred on Saturday has been widely condemned.

Government spokesperson Khalid al-Aleisir criticized the assault. He reported that many women and children died, and also destroyed private and public property “without any value,” describing it as a “criminal act”. He added: “This militia continues to violate international humanitarian law,”.

The violence is part of the continuing conflict that began in April 2023 between the Sudanese military and the RSF. Over 28,000 people have been killed since the fighting started, millions displaced, and famine worsening across the country. Human rights organizations and the United Nations have documented severe atrocities, including ethnically motivated killings and sexual violence. The International Criminal Court is investigating possible war crimes.

It’s been two days since RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Daglo pledged to reclaim Khartoum from the army, telling them, “We kicked them out before, and we’ll do it again.” The capital has been subjected to almost two years of incessant shelling, and large neighborhoods have been left abandoned as millions suffer through starvation.

UN estimates indicate at least 106,000 in Khartoum living in famine while millions more are experiencing crisis levels of hunger. Darfur already declared famine in five of its regions.

Before leaving office, the Biden administration sanctioned Sudanese army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and RSF leader Daglo, who have been accused of war crimes including attacks on civilians and starvation as a weapon.

UN Condemns Deadly Attack On Sudanese Hospital, Killing 70, As RSF Continues Offensive

January 27, 2025, 3:13 am

A deadly paramilitary attack on a hospital in Sudan’s El-Fasher, located in the western Darfur region, claimed the lives of 70 people, including patients receiving critical care. United Nations condemned the assault on the Saudi Teaching Maternal Hospital, which local officials attributed to the rebel group Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The attack took place as the RSF faced mounting battlefield losses to Sudanese military forces led by General Abdel-Fattah Burhan, including a recent seizure of an oil refinery by Burhan’s forces.

The attack on the hospital, the only operational medical facility in El-Fasher, is being described as a grave violation of international humanitarian law. Clementine Nkweta-Salami, the UN’s humanitarian coordinator in Sudan, condemned the “shocking disregard for human life,” demanding immediate cessation of attacks on civilians and infrastructure. The hospital’s emergency building was destroyed in the drone strike on Friday evening, while patients were being treated.

World Health Organization head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed outrage over the attack, calling it “appalling” and reaffirming the call for protection of healthcare facilities in conflict zones. Saudi Arabia also denounced the strike, labelling it a violation of international law and urging self-restraint from all parties involved in the conflict.

Sudan’s ongoing war, which erupted in April 2023 between Burhan’s military and the RSF, has led to catastrophic casualties, with over 28,000 dead and millions displaced. Both sides are accused of committing atrocities, particularly in the Darfur region, where the RSF and allied militias are targeting ethnic African groups. The war has caused widespread famine, and survivors are resorting to desperate measures to sustain themselves.

In recent developments, Burhan visited Sudan’s General Command headquarters in Khartoum, emphasizing his resolve to end the rebellion across Sudan.

Sudanese Army Condemns Ethnic Violence As Civilians Suffer In Escalating Conflict In El Gezira

January 15, 2025, 2:26 am

Sudanese army condemned on Saturday recent “individual violations” in El Gezira following accusations by rights groups that the military and its allies had launched ethnically targeted attacks on civilians. Attacks had mostly targeted civilians from western Sudan, living in the central state, and who were accused of collaborating with the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces in the civil war raging across the country.

The violence occurred after Sudanese army forces and allied groups reclaimed the state capital, Wad Madani, from the RSF earlier this week, a major shift in the nearly two-year conflict. According to the human rights group Emergency Lawyers, at least 13 people were killed in the farming settlement of Kambo Tayba, where the army advanced through the area. The group documented the hate speech targeting the residents by associating them with RSF, in addition to capturing rounds ups and torture leading to summary executions.

In a retaliatory statement the Sudanese Military Tuesday said on the violations against kanabi-settlement civilians vowed that any culprit found responsible will face justice concerning such attacks, which they do not support since such activities hurt innocent people who deserved to get justice.

This site of violence and looting by RSF fighters is El Gezira, which bore the brunt of a yearlong campaign that displaced hundreds of thousands of residents. A few reports implicated young men from the marginalized kanabi community of participating in raids by RSF, further heightening ethnic tensions.

A new video shared in the social media shows the execution of a civilian by soldiers who accused him of being part of the RSF. The second one shows a young man being pushed off a bridge by armed men belonging to an army-aligned militia.

The Sudanese Doctors Union condemned the violence and further said that innocent civilians bear the brunt of the ongoing conflict.

Sudan Army Claims Major Victory In Wad Madani, Pushes Out RSF Amid Escalating Conflict

January 11, 2025, 10:16 pm

Sudan military declared on Saturday that it has entered the central city of Wad Madani without resistance. The military reported this as an important victory in its ongoing struggle against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The army has released a video of its soldiers inside the city, which is the capital of El Gezira state. This is a key agricultural and trade center, and the RSF has held the city since December 2023.

If it captures Wad Madani, it would be the army’s greatest military achievement so far in this near-two-year-long war that started on April 2023. The escalations of this war have been over squabbles between the army and the RSF about the integration of their forces, unleashing one of the world’s worst humanitarian disasters, where over 12 million people have been displaced, and half the population now face hunger.

The Sudanese army issued a statement congratulating the people on its forces’ entry into Wad Madani, adding that they were focused on clearing out any remaining RSF holdouts within the city. El Gezira state, located south of Khartoum, has been a hotspot for violence, with RSF forces responsible for numerous civilian casualties, the destruction of fields, looting of hospitals and markets, and disruption of irrigation systems.

Despite its rich history as a prime agricultural land for centuries, there is an increased risk of famine in the region due to blockades imposed by the ongoing conflict. The army’s push to regain key areas, such as Sennar state, has been accompanied by intensified airstrikes that have bombarded largely civilian-populated areas.

Meanwhile, the RSF still controls most of western Sudan, including Darfur, where it is fighting hard with the army to take the city of al-Fashir, its last major stronghold in the region. The RSF and the army are also fighting in the White Nile state to the south.

US Targets Sudan’s RSF with Genocide Charge and Sanctions

January 9, 2025, 11:30 am

The United States has formally accused the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) of Sudan of committing genocide during the country’s devastating 20-month conflict. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced sanctions on RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo citing the systematic atrocities against civilians. Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo is widely known as Hemedti.

The RSF and allied militias have reportedly engaged in mass killings. They even target “men and boys, even infants,” alongside brutal sexual violence against women based on ethnicity. The attackers have targeted civilians fleeing the violence, further worsening the humanitarian crisis

“Based on this information, I conclude that members of the RSF and allied militias have committed genocide in Sudan,” Blinken stated.

RSF Denies Charges, Criticizes US Action

Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo aka Hemedti’s adviser, El-Basha Tbaeq, accused the US of double standards. He also accused the US of addressing Sudan’s crisis effectively. On his X account, he argued that the sanctions could complicate peace efforts and hinder negotiations aimed at resolving the conflict.

“The decision… expresses the failure of the [US President Joe] Biden administration to deal with the Sudanese crisis and the double standards it followed [with regards to the crisis],” El-Basha Tbaeq, said in a post on his X account.

The RSF has been embroiled in a brutal conflict with Sudan’s military since April 2023. This contributes to one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises. Reports suggest that up to 150,000 people have been killed, with famine declared in several areas. Nearly half of Sudan’s population—24.6 million people—urgently need food aid.

US Sanctions Target RSF Leadership and Gold Trade

Blinken said neither the RSF nor Sudan’s military were fit to govern Sudan. “Both belligerents bear responsibility for the violence and suffering in Sudan and lack the legitimacy to govern a future peaceful Sudan,” he said.

The sanctions target Hemedti, his immediate family, and RSF-linked businesses. Seven RSF-owned companies, primarily involved in the gold trade, and one individual were sanctioned for aiding the paramilitary group in procuring weapons.

The US Treasury also highlighted the role of Hemedti’s brother, Algoney. He controlled AZ Gold’s UAE bank account, holding millions of dollars. Hemedti and the RSF control lucrative gold mines in Sudan and neighboring regions, funding their operations.

International Implications of US Action

The UAE denied accusations of funding the RSF and reiterated its commitment to combating financial crime. The sanctions aim to pressure regional backers to distance themselves from the RSF and avoid business dealings with the group.

While Hemedti is unlikely to have assets in the US, the genocide designation and sanctions severely impact the RSF’s business network. They also complicate the RSF’s control over 50% of Sudan, including Darfur and Khartoum.

Challenges Ahead for Sudan’s Peace Efforts

Blinken emphasized that neither the RSF nor Sudan’s military holds the legitimacy to govern Sudan, urging both sides to end the violence. Recent indications of the Sudanese army’s willingness to accept Turkish mediation suggest a potential opening for peace talks.

The US intervention, supported by bipartisan Congress members, signals a stronger stance against the RSF’s actions. However, its immediate effect on the ground remains uncertain, with regional diplomacy playing a critical role in Sudan’s future.

This move by the outgoing Biden administration highlights the urgency of addressing Sudan’s humanitarian crisis and sets the stage for the incoming US leadership to take decisive action.

Is Sudan Facing Famine Or Fabrication, As Government Denies UN Hunger Crisis Report

December 30, 2024, 2:21 am

Sudanese government has vehemently rejected a recent United Nations backed report declaring that famine has spread across five regions of the war-torn country. The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification, used by UN agencies, issued the report after mounting warnings from the international community, including the United States and aid organizations, about Sudan’s worsening hunger crisis.

The ongoing conflict between Sudan’s military and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has left around 638,000 people in famine conditions, while another 8.1 million face the threat of mass starvation, according to IPC. The Sudanese foreign ministry was quick to dismiss the findings, branding the description of famine “categorically false” and accusing the report of lacking proper transparency and procedural rigor. The ministry argued that IPC’s team had not consulted with the government or had access to updated data before releasing the report.

The IPC, which conducts evidence-based analysis to gauge food security, has not responded to the Sudanese government’s claims. According to its website, the IPC insists on a strict, unbiased assessment process.

The humanitarian organizations raised alarm despite the denial from the government about the bad situation in Sudan, which has been suffering with millions of people due to the ongoing conflict that started in April 2023. In addition to famine, the country has witnessed massive displacement; more than 12 million people have been uprooted from their homes. The World Food Program issued a warning that Sudan stands on the brink of being the world’s largest hunger crisis in recent history.

The humanities effort is also stained by bureaucratic setbacks in which the government has been accused of blocking access teams from accessing RSF areas. According to International Rescue Committee, Sudan was dubbed “the biggest humanitarian crisis ever recorded” while calling on its leaders to declare an end to this war that enables humanitarian assistance to penetrate it.

RSF Retakes Key Darfur Base As Sudan Conflict Intensifies, Fueling Ethnic Tensions

December 22, 2024, 11:04 pm

Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) announced on Sunday they had regained control of a critical logistical base in North Darfur, a day after losing it to rival forces aligned with Sudan’s army.

The RSF recaptured the al-Zurug base, a key supply hub for the paramilitary group, which had been seized by the Joint Forces and Sudanese army on Saturday. The base, near the borders with Chad and Libya, has played a pivotal role in RSF operations during the ongoing 20-month conflict.

In their statement, the RSF accused the Joint Forces of committing atrocities during the brief occupation, claiming civilians were killed, homes and public facilities burned, and essential infrastructure, including markets, wells, and schools, destroyed.

“The Joint Forces carried out ethnic cleansing against innocent civilians in al-Zurug, targeting women, children, and the elderly,” the RSF alleged.

The Joint Forces, primarily composed of Zaghawa tribe members, countered that the base had been used by the RSF to launch attacks on civilian areas, including al-Fashir, North Darfur’s capital and a major flashpoint in the conflict. They also reported destroying RSF vehicles, killing dozens of fighters, and seizing supplies during the initial takeover.

Tensions between the Arab tribes supporting the RSF and the Zaghawa-dominated Joint Forces risk further escalation, analysts warn, as the fighting deepens ethnic divides in the region.

The United Nations has documented the loss of at least 782 civilian lives in al-Fashir since April, citing the use of heavy artillery, suicide drones by the RSF, and airstrikes by the Sudanese army. Activists in al-Fashir reported that over 30 missiles targeted the city on Sunday, intensifying the ongoing violence.

Analysts suggest that gaining control of al-Fashir could strengthen the RSF’s ambitions to establish a rival government in Port Sudan, as they battle to dominate Darfur amid Sudan’s broader political and military crisis.

Sudan RSF Bombs El-Fasher Hospital, Killing 10 Civilians Amid Ongoing Sudan Civil War

December 19, 2024, 12:52 am

According to local activists, shelling by Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces killed 10 civilians while injuring 20 others inside North Darfur’s besieged capital, El-Fasher, on Wednesday. The bombardment targeted parts of the city, where Saudi Hospital was located as part of the wider human rights crisis unfolding in this region.

The Saudi Hospital, one of the most important medical facilities, was attacked after a previous attack on December 13, which had already caused extensive damage. In the earlier shelling, RSF fire killed nine people and temporarily forced the hospital to close. The hospital’s emergency department was destroyed in the latest assault, according to an anonymous doctor quoted by AFP.

El-Fasher, a city of two million people, has been under siege by the RSF since May. The city remains a critical battleground in the 20-month conflict between the RSF and Sudan’s regular army, which struggles to hold its ground in Darfur. The army controls a small area in the north and east, but the RSF holds most of Darfur, Kordofan, and other central regions.

The attack on the hospital was just one of those carried out last week with an airstrike on the market in North Darfur that killed over 100 people, worsening the conflict that has displaced millions of people and caused tens of thousands of deaths. During the conflict, both sides-the RSF and army-have been accused of carrying out attacks on civilian infrastructures, including medical institutions. The United Nations has termed it as one of the most catastrophic humanitarian crises in the world.

UAE Strongly Condemns Attack On Ambassador’s Residence In Sudan

September 30, 2024, 5:40 am

The United Arab Emirates has strongly condemned the attack on the residence of its Head of Mission in Khartoum by a Sudanese army aircraft, which caused significant damage to the building. The UAE has called on the Sudanese army to take full responsibility for this cowardly act.

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In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) announced that it will submit a letter to the League of Arab States, the African Union, and the United Nations to address this attack by the Sudanese Armed Forces, which represents a blatant violation of the fundamental principle of the inviolability of diplomatic premises.

The Ministry emphasized the necessity of protecting diplomatic buildings and the residences of embassy staff, in accordance with the treaties and customs governing diplomatic relations.

Furthermore, the Ministry expressed its strong condemnation of these criminal acts and its unwavering rejection of all forms of violence and terrorism that threaten security and stability, in violation of international law.

Also Read: Protest March In Agartala Led By Forum For Protection Of Minorities In Bangladesh

Kuwait Hails ALPS Joint Statement Following Sudan Talks in Geneva

August 25, 2024, 7:33 pm

Kuwait has officially endorsed the joint statement released by the Aligned for Advancing Lifesaving and Peace in Sudan (ALPS) Group, which facilitated the latest round of intra-Sudan talks in Geneva. The Kuwaiti Foreign Ministry made the announcement on Saturday.
In a statement reported by the Kuwait News Agency, the Ministry commended the mediation efforts of both regional and international partners involved in the Geneva discussions. It praised the agreement reached to open crossings and secure routes, which is crucial for delivering international humanitarian aid to the Sudanese people.
Kuwait also expressed strong support for the Jeddah Declaration issued in May 2023, emphasizing the importance of adhering to its provisions to further peace and stability in Sudan.
Furthermore, the Ministry reiterated Kuwait’s ongoing commitment to humanitarian assistance, highlighting its air bridge initiative, which has already conducted 24 flights carrying significant amounts of aid to Sudan. This effort underscores Kuwait’s dedication to supporting the Sudanese people during their time of need.
Kuwait’s diplomatic engagement with Sudan and Geneva reflects its broader foreign policy priorities and regional interests. The relationship with Sudan and activities in Geneva illustrate Kuwait’s role in addressing regional issues and participating in international diplomatic forums.
Kuwait and Sudan have maintained a longstanding relationship characterized by cooperation in various sectors, including economic aid, trade, and humanitarian support. Kuwait has historically been involved in providing development aid and financial support to Sudan, particularly during periods of political and economic instability in the latter. This assistance aligns with Kuwait’s broader foreign policy objective of fostering stability and development in the Arab world.
Recent developments in Sudan, including political turmoil and conflict, have prompted Kuwait to engage actively in diplomatic efforts to support peace and stability in the region. Kuwait’s support for Sudan often comes through international organizations and cooperative frameworks, emphasizing its role as a stabilizing force in the Arab world. Kuwait’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs regularly issues statements regarding Sudan’s internal issues, advocating for peaceful resolutions and international cooperation.
Geneva, as a major hub for international diplomacy, hosts numerous international organizations, including the United Nations Office at Geneva (UNOG) and various humanitarian agencies. Kuwait’s involvement in Geneva typically focuses on its participation in international forums and discussions on global issues, such as humanitarian aid, climate change, and human rights.
Kuwait actively participates in United Nations forums held in Geneva, contributing to discussions on global challenges and human rights. Kuwait’s involvement is part of its broader strategy to influence international policy and demonstrate its commitment to global issues.
Kuwait has used Geneva as a platform to coordinate and announce humanitarian aid initiatives. The country’s engagement often includes contributions to UN-led humanitarian efforts and collaborations with international organizations based in Geneva.
Diplomatic Relations: Kuwait’s diplomatic presence in Geneva is part of its strategy to enhance its international profile and participate in global discussions. The city’s role as a center for international diplomacy provides Kuwait with opportunities to advance its foreign policy objectives and build relationships with other countries.
Kuwait’s relationship with Sudan underscores its role as a supporter of regional stability and development, while its activities in Geneva highlight its commitment to international diplomacy and humanitarian efforts. Through its engagements, Kuwait aims to bolster its influence in global affairs and support global initiatives that align with its national interests and values.

Sudan Peace Talks Achieve Key Aid Breakthrough Despite Ongoing Violence

August 18, 2024, 5:50 pm

Humanitarian Relief Progress

International mediators working to end Sudan’s ongoing conflict have welcomed recent decisions by both warring sides to facilitate humanitarian relief deliveries. In a joint statement issued on Saturday, the sponsors of the peace talks, including the United States, Saudi Arabia, Switzerland, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, the African Union, and the United Nations, commended the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) for agreeing to cooperate with aid operations in Darfur and Kordofan states.

Key Decisions and Coordination

The mediators also praised the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) for opening the Adre border crossing from Chad into North Darfur for three months, allowing crucial aid to enter the region. These steps are aimed at addressing severe food insecurity and humanitarian needs, which have been exacerbated by the ongoing conflict. The joint statement called for both parties to coordinate with humanitarian organizations to ensure that these corridors operate efficiently and without obstruction.

Geneva Talks and Conflict Background

The negotiations, which began in Geneva on Wednesday, proceeded without the participation of the Sudanese army due to disagreements over the format of the discussions. The conflict, which erupted last year, has resulted in one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises, with over 25 million people facing acute hunger. The war pits the SAF, led by Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, against the RSF, commanded by Mohamad Hamdan Dagalo, commonly known as “Hemedti.”

Humanitarian Efforts and Ongoing Violence

In a related development, the RSF has committed to facilitating humanitarian convoys through the Debbah crossing north of Khartoum. Despite these positive steps, recent reports indicate ongoing violence; an RSF attack in Jalgini village, Sennar state, reportedly resulted in numerous casualties. Additionally, a cholera outbreak has claimed at least 316 lives, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

International Response and US Involvement

US has emphasized the importance of the Geneva talks in ending the fighting and alleviating the humanitarian crisis. US Special Envoy for Sudan, Tom Perriello, highlighted the significance of the Adre border crossing opening for humanitarian efforts. He urged the SAF to join the negotiations to further advance peace efforts. The US, which has played a leading role in the peace process, has been working to support Sudan’s transition to a more stable and democratic government.

Historical Context

Sudan’s transition has been troubled since the 2019 overthrow of longtime ruler Omar al-Bashir. The subsequent military coup against the civilian government in October 2021 and the ensuing conflict between the SAF and RSF have hindered progress towards civilian rule. The Geneva talks represent a crucial opportunity to address both the immediate humanitarian needs and the broader political challenges facing Sudan.

UAE Boosts Sudan Aid With $230 Million Amid Ongoing Conflict

August 18, 2024, 5:02 pm

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) continues its humanitarian efforts to aid the people of Sudan, showcasing a long-standing commitment to support and relief. From 2014 to 2024, the UAE provided $3.5 billion in aid to Sudan. Since the outbreak of conflict in 2023, the UAE has contributed $230 million in assistance, according to a press release from the UAE Embassy in India.

Over 159 relief flights have transported more than 10,000 tonnes of food, medical supplies, and other relief materials. Furthermore, two field hospitals have been set up in Chad to provide care for Sudanese refugees. The Amdjarass Field Hospital has treated 24,741 patients, while the Abeche Field Hospital has provided care to 21,761 individuals, the press release noted.

In April, the UAE committed over USD 100 million in aid at the International Humanitarian Conference for Sudan and Neighboring Countries in Paris. This aid includes $70 million for UN humanitarian organisations in Sudan, $30 million for refugees in neighbouring countries, $25 million for the World Food Programme, $20 million for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), $8 million for the World Health Organization (WHO), and $7 million for the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF).

Additionally, the UAE has donated $5 million each to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) and the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

“The UAE remains committed to supporting the Sudanese people during these challenging times, providing essential humanitarian aid and medical assistance to those affected by the ongoing crisis,” the UAE Embassy in India stated.

The origins of the current conflict in Sudan lie in the country’s turbulent political past. In 2019, a popular uprising led to the removal of long-time dictator Omar al-Bashir, who had ruled for three decades. This revolution sparked hopes for a democratic transition, but the military, which had supported the uprising, quickly seized power. A civilian-military transitional government was formed, but conflicts between military and civilian leaders persisted.

In October 2021, these conflicts erupted into a military coup led by General al-Burhan, which dissolved the transitional government and further destabilized the country. Despite widespread protests and international criticism, the military maintained control. Divisions soon surfaced within the military, especially between the SAF and the RSF, which had transitioned from a paramilitary group to a part of the Sudanese military.

Disagreements over the integration of the RSF into the regular army and control over the military escalated into open conflict in April 2023. Both factions fought for control of strategic locations in Khartoum and other critical regions.

The conflict has caused a dire humanitarian crisis, with thousands of civilians killed, millions displaced, and extensive infrastructure damage. Essential services have been severely disrupted, resulting in shortages of food, water, and medical supplies. Additionally, the conflict has spread to neighboring countries, worsening regional instability.

Horrific Sexual Violence In Sudan Exposed By Human Rights Watch Report

July 30, 2024, 6:24 pm

Devastating Impact of Conflict on Khartoum Residents

In a harrowing account of the ongoing civil war in Sudan, a major report from Human Rights Watch (HRW) has revealed widespread sexual violence against women and girls in the capital, Khartoum, perpetrated by the warring factions, particularly the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The conflict, which began in April 2023, has left vast areas of the city in ruins and has resulted in the suffering of countless civilians.

Shocking Reports of Rape and Forced Marriages

The HRW report, titled “Khartoum is Not Safe for Women,” documents numerous cases of rape, gang rape, forced marriages, and sexual slavery. One woman was raped along with her four daughters while her husband and sons were forced to watch. Another woman, pregnant from rape, was thrown out of her home by her husband and separated from her children. The report highlights the terror experienced by women and girls in residential areas, with many feeling that nowhere is safe.

Widespread Displacement and Humanitarian Crisis

The United Nations has described the situation in Sudan as “one of the worst humanitarian disasters in recent memory.” Over 6 million Sudanese are internally displaced, 1.5 million have sought safety abroad, and nearly 26 million people – more than half of the population – are at risk of famine. The conflict has not only devastated Khartoum but has also spread to other parts of the country, including the western Darfur region.

Healthcare System Strained by Violence

Due to the difficulty in accessing Khartoum and speaking directly to survivors, HRW interviewed 42 healthcare providers, social workers, and other responders between September 2023 and February 2024. These interviews revealed the immense physical, emotional, and social scars left on survivors.

Healthcare workers reported treating survivors with severe injuries from the violence, including vaginal bleeding, bruises, and other physical trauma. In at least four cases, these injuries proved fatal.

A Call for Accountability and Support

Laetitia Bader, deputy Africa director at HRW, emphasized the urgent need for accountability and support for the victims. “The Rapid Support Forces have raped, gang raped, and forced into marriage countless women and girls in residential areas in Sudan’s capital,” she said. “The armed group has terrorized women and girls, and both warring parties have blocked them from getting aid and support services, compounding the harm they face and leaving them to feel that nowhere is safe.”

CNN is seeking comment from both the RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) on the allegations contained in the HRW report. As the world watches, the international community must respond to the dire situation in Sudan, ensuring that those responsible for these atrocities are held accountable and that survivors receive the necessary support and care.

Leaked Documents Suggest UAE Involvement In Sudan Civil War

July 26, 2024, 12:52 pm

Passports recovered from battlefields in Sudan suggest the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is covertly involved in the country’s devastating civil war, according to leaked documents. A 41-page document, sent to the UN Security Council and seen by the Guardian, contains images of Emirati passports allegedly found in Sudan and linked to soldiers of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a notorious paramilitary group.

Evidence Challenges UAE Denials

The UAE has previously denied accusations of supplying arms to the RSF, which is besieging El Fasher in a broader campaign of ethnic cleansing in Darfur. However, the discovery of these passports indicates a potential escalation, complicating the 15-month-long conflict between the RSF and the Sudanese military.

The passports were reportedly recovered from Omdurman, near Khartoum, in an area formerly held by the RSF but recently reclaimed by the Sudanese army. Analysts describe the discovery as a “smoking gun,” challenging UAE denials and raising questions about what the US and UK know about the Gulf state’s involvement in Sudan. Cameron Hudson, a former Sudan adviser to the US government, said, “This will force Washington to acknowledge what it knows about this and respond.”

Military and Humanitarian Implications

The document also indicates that the UAE has supplied the RSF with drones modified to drop thermobaric bombs, which are more devastating than conventional explosives. The papers include photos of four passports allegedly belonging to UAE nationals, recovered from the wreckage of a vehicle in Omdurman. Two passports belonging to Yemeni nationals were also found at the same location, suggesting possible reciprocal assistance between the RSF and Yemeni fighters.

The UAE dismissed the claims, stating that the individuals in the passport images had traveled to Sudan for humanitarian purposes 11 months before the conflict began in April 2023. A statement from the UAE ambassador to the UN claimed that the passports belonged to a delegation from the UAE-based International Charity Organization.

Despite these denials, UN sanction monitors have described the claims of UAE military support to the RSF as “credible.” Kholood Khair, a Sudanese political analyst, said, “This makes a mockery of the UAE’s insistence it has nothing to do with militarily supporting the RSF.”

Global Repercussions

Hudson, also a former CIA intelligence analyst, noted that the discovery makes it harder for the UAE to distance itself from Sudan, emphasizing that the UAE has previously operated through proxies to maintain plausible deniability. The document also includes details of military hardware, such as a quadcopter drone and thermobaric bombs, allegedly supplied by the UAE.

The UAE ambassador’s statement asserted that the passport images were photocopies, and the implicated individuals retain their passports. The statement emphasized that these allegations are defamatory and contrary to the individuals’ humanitarian efforts in Sudan.

The situation remains tense, with the international community closely monitoring developments in Sudan’s ongoing civil war.

Pakistan’s Gender Equality Decline: Near Bottom In Global Gender Gap Index

July 7, 2024, 7:41 am

In the latest Global Gender Gap Index by the World Economic Forum (WEF), Pakistan is near the bottom, with only Sudan ranked lower among the 146 nations surveyed. This represents a decline from its 142nd position last year, highlighting a worsening situation for women in the country, as reported by Dawn.

Women’s rights activists are urging both state and societal commitment to address gender disparities effectively. They emphasize the necessity of redefining the roles prescribed to women by Pakistani society and the government.

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Pakistan’s gender gap index hits rock bottom, second worst globally

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The annual index evaluates gender parity across four critical dimensions: economic participation and opportunity, educational attainment, health and survival, and political empowerment. Leading nations in gender parity include Iceland, Finland, Norway, New Zealand, and Sweden, according to Dawn.

“This year’s dismal ranking is not an anomaly; Pakistan has consistently lagged in the index for over a decade,” stated Bushra Khaliq, Executive Director of Women in Struggle for Empowerment (WISE), reflecting on Pakistan’s persistent challenges in achieving gender equality. Comparatively, neighboring countries have fared better in closing their gender gaps.

A breakdown of the rankings across sectors reveals stark disparities. In economic participation and opportunity, Pakistan ranks 143rd, with Bangladesh at 146th. In educational attainment, Pakistan is at 139th, trailing behind Bangladesh (125th). Political empowerment remains a significant challenge, with Pakistan at 112th, while Bangladesh ranks 7th.

According to the WEF report, Pakistan’s recent drop in the index primarily stems from setbacks in political empowerment, despite slight improvements in educational attainment. Gender disparities persist prominently in economic and political spheres, alongside gaps in educational attainment and health outcomes.

Farah Zia, Director of the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, highlighted challenges faced by women in mainstream politics. “Recent political maneuvers have targeted women leaders and activists, undermining their role and impact,” Zia lamented, citing incidents of targeted incarceration and legal obstacles.

Despite a 33 percent quota for women in parliament, Zia noted that genuine representation remains elusive for women not affiliated with influential political families or urban centers.

Addressing economic roles, Bushra Khaliq acknowledged some progress in sectors like textiles and fashion but highlighted pervasive exploitation in the informal sector. “Women in Pakistan predominantly work in precarious conditions, limiting their economic empowerment,” Khaliq remarked.

The health sector presents alarming statistics, with high maternal mortality rates and inadequate reproductive health services plaguing women across Pakistan. Educational barriers further compound gender disparities, with approximately 25 million out-of-school children, predominantly girls, lacking access to basic education, according to Dawn.

Farah Zia underscored the impact of unchecked population growth on women’s development, critiquing government policies that prioritize population-linked incentives over sustainable human development. “The lack of discourse on reproductive rights has profound implications for women’s health, education, and economic participation,” Zia emphasized.

Both Zia and Khaliq pointed to entrenched patriarchal norms and societal resistance, exemplified by contentious reactions to events like the Aurat March. “Society’s resistance to women’s rights exacerbates gender disparities,” Zia stated, calling for concerted efforts to challenge and transform patriarchal mindsets.

In closing, activists urged robust commitments from the state and society to redefine women’s roles and ensure gender parity. “Progressive steps are essential for integrating women into the socio-economic fabric of Pakistan,” Zia asserted, advocating for comprehensive policy reforms and grassroots empowerment initiatives.

Critically appraising governmental departments’ roles, Khaliq highlighted the need for improved data transparency and collaboration with international organizations. “Accurate data reporting is crucial for measuring progress and advocating for policy reforms,” Khaliq emphasized, urging greater accountability and transparency.

As the global community grapples with persistent gender gaps, the WEF report underscores the imperative of inclusive economic policies and structural reforms to empower women fully. “Economic gender parity is not just a social justice issue but an economic imperative,” the report concluded, urging governments to prioritize gender equality as a catalyst for sustainable development and innovation, Dawn reported.