Khartoum: The US senior adviser for Arab and African affairs, Massad Boulos, announced that efforts are in progress to implement a humanitarian truce in Sudan, as the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have agreed to an initial plan in principle.
According to Anadolu Agency, Boulos stated that both parties have consented in principle, with no initial objections recorded from either side. The focus is now on finalizing the details of the plan. This initiative aims to establish a mutual understanding for a complete ceasefire and a post-truce phase in Sudan, following the framework agreed upon by the International Quad in Washington in September.
On September 12, the International Quad, comprising the US, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), called for a three-month humanitarian truce in Sudan. This truce is intended to facilitate the delivery of emergency aid across the nation as a precursor to a permanent ceasefire.
The US-led committee also proposed a 9-month transition process after the initial humanitarian truce to set up an independent, civilian-led government in Sudan. Boulos emphasized that while no direct or indirect negotiations are currently occurring between the RSF and the Sudanese army, a separate US-led communication is steering the process.
Boulos highlighted the critical humanitarian situation in El-Fasher, North Darfur's capital, and reiterated Washington's condemnation of the atrocities against civilians in the city. On October 26, the RSF seized control of El-Fasher, committing massacres against civilians, as reported by local and international organizations. There are concerns that the assault could deepen Sudan's geographical divisions.
Boulos stressed the urgent need to address the humanitarian crisis and achieve lasting peace in Sudan to preserve the nation's unity. In a statement on US social media company X, he condemned the "horrific crimes against civilians in El Fasher" and called for immediate action to protect civilians and halt the violence.
His latest comments followed a meeting with Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit, where they discussed recent developments and pressing regional challenges. Since April 15, 2023, the Sudanese army and the RSF have been engaged in a conflict that has eluded resolution through regional and international mediation, resulting in thousands of deaths and millions of displacements.