US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Sudanese Armed Forces General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan held a phone conversation emphasizing the urgent need to end the ongoing conflict in Sudan.
The discussion, according to the US State Department, also focused on ensuring unimpeded humanitarian access across borders and conflict lines to alleviate the suffering of the Sudanese people.
The talks underscored the importance of resuming negotiations within the Jeddah framework, aimed at protecting civilians and reducing hostilities, particularly in the city of El Fasher in North Darfur.
The conflict, which erupted in April 2023, pits the Sudanese Armed Forces against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), with no political resolution in sight.
Secretary Blinken reiterated the necessity of securing humanitarian corridors to provide vital aid to those affected by the fighting.
He also stressed the significance of a ceasefire to facilitate these efforts and protect civilian lives.
The war in Sudan, now in its second year, has caused widespread devastation and displacement.
Efforts to mediate a political solution have so far been unsuccessful, leading to ongoing instability and hardship for the Sudanese population.
Blinken’s call to General Burhan highlights the international community’s growing concern over the escalating violence and its impact on regional stability.
The US continues to advocate for a peaceful resolution and the resumption of dialogue to bring an end to the conflict.
The conflict in Sudan began in April 2023, following a power struggle between the Sudanese Armed Forces, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
This struggle has resulted in significant civilian casualties and displacement, with various international efforts to broker peace yielding limited success.
The Jeddah talks, mentioned by Blinken, represent one of the ongoing attempts to mediate a ceasefire and establish a framework for lasting peace in the region.