According to a report by Reuters, Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary group has embraced a call by the United Nations Security Council for a cessation of hostilities during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. This move offers a potential break from the 11-month-old conflict. The month of Ramadan is expected to begin on Sunday evening.
The RSF expressed optimism in a statement that the Security Council’s resolution would alleviate the suffering of the Sudanese people by allowing for the smooth delivery of humanitarian aid. They also hope that it will pave the way for a political process that leads to a permanent ceasefire.
Conflict erupted in Sudan on April 15, 2023, between the Sudanese army and the RSF. The United Nations estimates that nearly 25 million people, half of Sudan’s population, require assistance. Approximately 8 million individuals have been displaced from their homes, and hunger is on the rise. The United States has accused the warring parties of committing war crimes.
The Security Council adopted a resolution on Friday, drafted by Britain, calling for a cessation of hostilities during Ramadan. The resolution received 14 votes in favor, with Russia abstaining. However, the specifics of how this resolution will be implemented remain unclear.
Sudan’s ambassador to the United Nations, Al-Harith Idriss Al-Harith Mohamed, informed the council on Thursday that the president of the country’s transitional council supported the U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’ call for a Ramadan truce. Nonetheless, the leader is reportedly uncertain about how to proceed with this ceasefire.
The RSF, in their statement on Saturday, expressed their willingness to participate in discussions regarding the establishment of mutually agreed-upon monitoring mechanisms. They believe that such mechanisms are essential for ensuring the effective implementation of the ceasefire and for achieving the humanitarian goals outlined in the resolution.
Reporting by Hatem Maher and Ahmed Tolba; Editing by Andrew Heavens and Giles Elgood
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