Sudan Peace Talks Halt Amid Discord Over Withdrawal Terms

CAIRO (Reuters) – Sudan’s army has conditionally accepted a United States proposal aimed at brokering a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict in the African nation. However, its acceptance hinges on the full withdrawal of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), headed by Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, from all cities occupied since May 2023.

The U.S. plan, revealed in a Reuters report, outlines a proposed 90-day humanitarian truce and negotiations for a permanent ceasefire. It also includes a provision for limited RSF withdrawals from North Darfur and North Kordofan. However, the Sudanese army rejected the limited withdrawal provision, citing the need for a more comprehensive disengagement.

The Sudanese army’s position appears to be a significant hurdle in the peace negotiations, as the RSF has maintained control over several key cities and regions across the country. The RSF has been a key player in the ongoing conflict, with its leader, Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, holding sway as a prominent military figure in Sudan.

The U.S. plan aims to stabilize the situation and lay the groundwork for long-term peace. The humanitarian truce is intended to alleviate the suffering of civilians caught in the conflict. The proposed ceasefire negotiations could eventually lead to a more permanent end to the violence, which has ravaged Sudan for months.

Sudan’s complex and multifaceted conflict has been fueled by a combination of ethnic, regional, and ideological tensions. The RSF’s occupation of key areas across the country has been a major source of instability. If the Sudanese army’s conditions are met, the RSF’s full withdrawal could pave the way for a more meaningful and lasting peace.

The acceptance of the U.S. proposal by the Sudanese army has generated cautious optimism among diplomats and observers. However, the rejection of the limited withdrawal provision highlights the complexity of the negotiations and the need for compromise.

As the situation in Sudan continues to evolve, international pressure is mounting for the parties involved to reach a lasting agreement. The international community recognizes the gravity of the crisis and the imperative for a peaceful solution. The success of the peace negotiations will ultimately depend on the ability of the Sudanese army and the RSF to put aside their differences and work towards a more stable and secure future for the nation.