Explosions were reported near Khartoum, Sudan’s capital, following an announcement by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) that they would agree to a humanitarian ceasefire. Residents indicated that they were awakened by drone sounds and explosions during the early hours of Friday, with blasts reportedly occurring near a military base and a power station.
The RSF has not commented on these incidents, while the Sudanese military-led government expressed skepticism about a truce, citing previous failures by the RSF to uphold ceasefire agreements. Since the civil war began in April 2023, over 150,000 individuals have lost their lives, and 12 million people have been displaced. A recent UN-backed report indicated worsening famine conditions in areas affected by the conflict.
On the day of the explosions, drone activity was also reported in Atbara, a military-controlled town located 300 kilometers north of Khartoum. Residents in Atbara described seeing fires and hearing explosions after anti-aircraft defenses intercepted the drones.
The day before the explosions, the RSF had stated it accepted a humanitarian truce proposed by the US, UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt. This proposal, suggested in September, envisions transitioning to a permanent ceasefire and civilian governance. The Sudanese government has previously rejected foreign involvement in the conflict, likening the RSF to a “racist terrorist militia.”
During a recent press conference, Sudan’s ambassador to South Africa conveyed the government’s reluctance to accept the truce, underscoring a history of unmet ceasefire agreements with the RSF. He also criticized the UAE’s participation in the talks, alleging military support for the RSF, a claim the UAE has denied.
The RSF recently took control of el-Fasher, a significant city, potentially granting it increased leverage in future negotiations. However, this consolidation of power comes amidst international scrutiny over reports of human rights violations attributed to the group during its actions in el-Fasher.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c5y4j155g49o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss