Sudan endorses UN Ramadan ceasefire, imposes conditions

Sudan’s Foreign Ministry has provided a nuanced endorsement of the UN Secretary-General’s call for a ceasefire during Ramadan, stipulating specific conditions for its implementation.

During a Security Council meeting on Thursday, UN Secretary-General António Guterres urged conflicting parties in Sudan to halt hostilities, emphasizing the need for a ceasefire that would pave the way for enduring peace and the complete cessation of fighting nationwide.

Responding cautiously on Friday, Sudan’s Foreign Ministry extended its welcome to Guterres’ proposal while voicing apprehensions regarding past ceasefires, which were allegedly exploited by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group.

Citing instances where the RSF allegedly misused previous truces to bolster their position, Sudan expressed skepticism and underscored the necessity for stringent measures to guarantee a genuine cessation of hostilities.

To ensure the efficacy of the proposed ceasefire, Sudan outlined four key demands, including the withdrawal of RSF from civilian areas such as residences, public establishments, and occupied civilian infrastructure.

Furthermore, the statement called for the RSF’s evacuation from the states of Al-Jazirah and Sennar, in addition to any cities they occupied subsequent to the May 11th, 2023 Declaration of Humanitarian Principles. It also demanded an end to atrocities and violations of international law perpetrated by elements of the paramilitary forces, alongside the restitution of looted public and private property, with those responsible for destruction held accountable.

In a separate development on Wednesday, Sudan agreed to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid to conflict zones through government-controlled areas. This includes the Al-Tina crossing, which connects North Darfur to Chad, in addition to existing air and land routes under army jurisdiction.