Sudan News

The International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutor Karim Khan announced that he is pursuing arrest warrants for individuals accused of committing genocide and other atrocities in Sudan's Darfur region. Speaking to the UN Security Council, Khan reported an alarming increase in criminal activity, including targeted violence against civilians and widespread sexual violence against women and girls, according to verified evidence. Sudan has been embroiled in conflict since mid-April 2023, following clashes between military and paramilitary leaders in the capital, Khartoum, that have spread throughout the country. Khan emphasized the grim similarities to previous conflicts in the region, pointing out that "the pattern of crimes" and the affected communities today closely mirror those from two decades ago when severe violence erupted in Darfur. Moreover, Khan highlighted recent legal progress with the trial of Ali Muhammad Ali Abd-al-Rahman, a Janjaweed leader accused of war crimes. The prosecutor's statements coincide with increased condemnation of violence from global leaders, including UN Secretary-General António Guterres, who denounced a recent attack on a hospital in El Fasher, resulting in numerous fatalities.

The Sudanese army announced its recapture of the Al-Jaili oil refinery, located approximately 70 kilometers north of Khartoum, which had been under the control of the paramilitary group Rapid Support Forces (RSF) since the civil war began in April 2023. The refinery, the largest in Sudan with a capacity of 100,000 barrels per day, is a joint asset of the Sudanese government and the Chinese National Petroleum Corporation, according to officials. Recent satellite images revealed severe damage and fires at the facility, highlighting the wider devastation caused by the ongoing conflict that has reportedly claimed tens of thousands of lives and displaced over 14 million people. A study by American universities estimates total casualties could reach as high as 130,000. Despite military gains, analysts warn that substantial negotiations will remain unlikely as long as neither side assumes full control over the capital. The situation in Darfur, where the U.S. has classified RSF actions as genocide against ethnic minorities, continues to deteriorate, with recent drone strikes resulting in numerous civilian casualties.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutor, Karim Khan, has announced his intention to seek arrest warrants for individuals accused of committing atrocities in Sudan’s Darfur region. Speaking at the United Nations Security Council in New York, Khan emphasized that there is verified evidence indicating that civilians are being targeted and entire communities are being destroyed amidst escalating criminality in the area. Khan’s statements align with claims from the United States and other nations, which have classified the actions of a paramilitary group and its allies in Darfur as genocide. The conflict in Sudan began in April 2023, sparked by tensions between military and paramilitary leaders, and has spread to several regions including the vast Darfur area. Khan remarked on the unsettling parallels between the current situation and the genocide witnessed two decades ago, asserting that the same communities are once again enduring severe violence. He highlighted that ICC lawyers have made significant progress in their investigations, interviewing witnesses who have fled the conflict. The past atrocities in Darfur are well-documented, with the previous conflict leading to the death of up to 300,000 people and displacing around 2.7 million. Khan’s remarks included references to current ethnic targeting of populations, particularly against non-Arab groups. In addition to these developments, UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemned a recent attack on a hospital in El Fasher which resulted in significant casualties. The situation in Darfur remains dire, with rising tensions and the threat of widespread famine looming over the displaced populations.

A recent assault on a hospital in El Fascher, the capital of North Darfur, has resulted in the deaths of at least 70 individuals and injured 19 others, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The hospital was reportedly full at the time of the attack, which targeted both patients and their companions. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized that the area had faced significant challenges in healthcare provision due to intense bombardments. The hospital was noted as the only operational medical facility in El Fascher, providing essential services such as gynecology, obstetrics, internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, and nutrition stabilization. Another healthcare facility in El Malha was also attacked the previous day, further disrupting medical care for local residents and displaced persons. In light of these incidents, the WHO has called for an immediate cessation of attacks on health facilities and unrestricted access to restore damaged services, underscoring the urgent need for peace in Sudan. This escalation follows a protracted struggle for power in Sudan, which has seen the military, led by de facto leader Abdel-Fattah al-Burhan, clashing with former deputy Mohamed Hamdan Daglo and his militia, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The RSF has been besieging El Fascher since last May, which is the last major city in the region still under government control. The UN's human rights office expressed concern over potential violence in El Fascher as the RSF issued an ultimatum to government troops to vacate the city. The ongoing conflict, which has been intensifying since April 2023, continues to pose severe risks to civilians and healthcare infrastructure, prompting humanitarian organizations to issue alerts about deteriorating conditions.

A recent attack on a hospital in El Fascher, the capital of North Darfur, Sudan, has resulted in the deaths of at least 70 individuals, with an additional 19 wounded. The World Health Organization (WHO) announced that the facility was fully occupied at the time of the assault, affecting patients and their companions. The WHO chief, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, highlighted that the healthcare services in the region had already been severely limited due to ongoing bombardments. According to Tedros, the attacked hospital was the only functioning medical facility in El Fascher, offering essential services in areas such as gynecology, obstetrics, internal medicine, surgery, and pediatrics, along with a nutrition stabilization center. Another health facility in El Malha was targeted the day prior, further interrupting the basic medical care available to residents and displaced individuals. The WHO continues to call for an immediate cessation of all attacks on healthcare services in Sudan and unrestricted access for the rapid restoration of damaged facilities. Tedros emphasized the urgent need for peace in the region, stating that "peace is the best medicine." Concerns had been raised by the UN Human Rights Office about an anticipated assault on El Fascher, where the rebel group Rapid Support Forces (RSF) issued an ultimatum for government forces to leave by a certain deadline. The Sudanese military has reaffirmed its resistance to attacks, calling on conflicting parties to adhere to international law to protect civilians. Since April 2023, Sudan has been embroiled in a power struggle between de facto leader Abdel-Fattah al-Burhan and his former deputy, Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, leader of the RSF. El Fascher is currently the last major city in the region under government control, but ongoing conflicts have led to the destruction of most hospitals and health facilities in the area.

A recent attack on the Saudi Teaching Maternal hospital in El Fasher, Sudan, has resulted in the deaths of approximately 70 people, including patients and their companions. This incident is part of escalating violence as Sudan's civil war intensifies. The World Health Organization (WHO) attributes the attack to the rebel group Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which has faced setbacks on the battlefield against the Sudanese military. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus condemned the attack, labeling it a violation of international law. He highlighted that the hospital was receiving a heavy load of patients at the time of the assault, leading to numerous injuries and fatalities. This crisis follows months of a siege by the RSF in El Fasher, a city housing over one million residents, where humanitarian conditions have dramatically worsened. The RSF's siege has reportedly resulted in 782 civilian deaths and over 1,140 injuries since May 2024, with many in the community struggling to survive amid the escalating conflict. Saudi Arabia has condemned the hospital attack, while international mediators continue to urge ceasefire efforts amidst the ongoing violence. The RSF has not publicly acknowledged its involvement in the attack but recently issued threats of further military action against rival armed forces within the city. Sudan has been in turmoil since the 2019 removal of longtime leader Omar al-Bashir, with rising tensions culminating in a military coup in October 2021. The ongoing conflict has displaced millions and contributed to a severe humanitarian crisis across the country.

A devastating drone attack on the Saudi Hospital in El-Fasher, Sudan's Darfur region, resulted in the deaths of 30 individuals on Friday evening, with many more injured, according to medical sources. This attack, which took place on January 25, 2025, destroyed the building designated for emergency treatment. The assailants behind the attack remain unidentified as the ongoing conflict between Sudan's army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) continues to unfold. The RSF has taken control of much of Darfur since the conflict erupted in April 2023. Although they have besieged El-Fasher, they have yet to capture the city, where armed militias loyal to the army have been offering resistance. This hospital has faced repeated assaults, with the medical source noting that it had previously been targeted by an RSF drone, underscoring the rampant attacks on healthcare facilities in the area. According to Doctors Without Borders, the Saudi Hospital is one of the last public hospitals capable of providing surgical services, as approximately 80% of health care facilities in Sudan are now non-operational due to the conflict. The conflict has caused immense human suffering, leading to tens of thousands of deaths and displacing over 12 million people. Areas around El-Fasher are experiencing famine, with conditions expected to worsen in the coming months.

The United States has imposed sanctions on Sudan's army chief, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, in response to his government's actions during the ongoing civil war that has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and the displacement of millions. The US Treasury Department announced the sanctions, citing Burhan's leadership in indiscriminate bombing of civilian locations, assaults on schools and hospitals, and extrajudicial executions. This action follows previous sanctions against Burhan's rival, Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, commander of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), after allegations of genocide against his forces. The recent sanctions symbolize Washington's intent to maintain neutrality while acknowledging the severe humanitarian repercussions of the conflict. Burhan responded defiantly to the sanctions, asserting that any punitive measures would be welcomed as efforts to defend Sudan. The US sanctions block any US assets held by Burhan and related entities, while allowing specific transactions to facilitate humanitarian aid efforts. The civil war erupted in April 2023 and has led to a severe food crisis affecting half of the Sudanese population. The US and Saudi Arabia have attempted to mediate peace talks, but the Sudanese army has largely rejected these initiatives. In a recent press conference, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed regret over the failure to resolve the fighting and highlighted the ongoing humanitarian needs in Sudan.

In el-Fasher, Sudan, brave medical professionals are continuing their life-saving work in the face of relentless shelling, as the city remains under siege. The Saudi Hospital, the only functioning medical facility in North Darfur with surgical capability, has recently experienced its highest casualty numbers since the beginning of the conflict, with 28 fatalities and over 50 injuries reported among patients and staff in just the past month. Dr. Mustafa Ali Abdulrahman Ibo, a key member of the surgical team, recounted a particularly harrowing day when the team was forced to perform an emergency caesarean section during an artillery attack. The chaos left the hospital in darkness, with debris from a nearby explosion compromising the sterility of the operating room. Despite the risks, the team successfully delivered a child, later capturing a photo that they feared might be their last. Conditions continue to deteriorate in el-Fasher, where the conflict between Sudan’s military and the Rapid Support Forces has displaced over 12 million people, causing widespread humanitarian crises. The United Nations reports that more than 780 civilians have died due to ongoing violence in the region. Other hospitals have been forced to shut down, leaving the Saudi Hospital to serve the entire populace, including those residing in the Zamzam refugee camp, where severe hunger is prevalent. Medical staff are facing immense pressure, with shortages of supplies and increasing attacks on their operations. Humanitarian groups, including Médecins Sans Frontières, have condemned the violence against medical services, calling for adherence to international humanitarian laws. As the situation escalates, local medical professionals express their commitment to continue aiding the wounded, despite the overwhelming odds they face. Dr. Ibo emphasized their belief in their mission, stating, "Our souls refused to abandon the people of this city," highlighting the resilience of the medical team in the midst of chaos.

The United Nations has issued a grave warning regarding the escalating conflict in Sudan, particularly the impending battle for the capital, Khartoum. UN Human Rights Commissioner Volker Türk expressed alarm over reports suggesting that Sudan's military leader, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, may contemplate the use of chemical weapons in the ongoing conflict against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) led by Mohamed Hamdan Daglo. Recent battles have intensified, particularly following the military's recent capture of Wad Madani, raising fears of catastrophic consequences for civilians. Türk highlighted the dire conditions faced by Sudanese civilians, citing evidence of potential war crimes and surrounding atrocities. In just the past week, the UN documented at least 21 civilian deaths resulting from two attacks in the Al-Jazira state, although the actual toll is likely higher. Furthermore, a recent drone strike in Omdurman reportedly killed around 120 civilians, amplifying concerns about indiscriminate violence against non-combatants. The UN urged both conflicting parties to respect international humanitarian law and cease hostilities, emphasizing that civilian populations must not be targeted. The United States has responded to the escalating crisis by imposing sanctions on both leaders, signaling international condemnation of the violence. Since the onset of armed conflict in April 2023, approximately 12 million people have been displaced, marking one of the most significant refugee crises globally.

The United States has taken significant action by imposing sanctions on Sudan's army chief, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, in response to his alleged role in the ongoing civil war that has resulted in widespread violence and humanitarian crises. The U.S. Treasury Department accused Burhan of engaging in war tactics such as indiscriminate bombing of civilian areas and extrajudicial executions. This move follows a recent round of sanctions against Burhan's rival, Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, leader of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The sanctions aim to demonstrate that the U.S. is not taking sides in the conflict, while also preventing U.S. individuals and entities from engaging with the sanctioned parties. In a defiant response, Burhan welcomed the sanctions, claiming they serve his country. Meanwhile, the Sudanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs criticized the U.S. actions as misguided and accused Washington of failing to address the actions of the RSF. The civil war, which erupted in April 2023, has devastated Sudan, leaving millions hungry and displacing countless others. Despite attempts by the U.S. and Saudi Arabia to facilitate negotiations, Burhan’s forces have largely rejected such efforts while escalating military operations. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken lamented the inability to halt the fighting during his tenure, emphasizing the ongoing humanitarian suffering in the region.

According to a report by The New York Times, the Sudanese military, under the leadership of de facto ruler Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, has allegedly authorized the use of chemical weapons in its ongoing conflict against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This development raises serious concerns in Washington, with fears that such weapons may soon be employed against civilians, particularly in the capital, Khartoum, where intense fighting is currently taking place. The report cites four U.S. officials who suggest that the military's actions represent a new low in a conflict that has already sparked the world's largest refugee crisis, with over 12 million people displaced since fighting began in April 2023. Officials previously imposed sanctions against al-Burhan, accusing him of indiscriminately bombing civilians, obstructing humanitarian aid, and using hunger as a weapon of war. While the specific types of chemical weapons deployed remain unclear, the New York Times indicated that only a small circle of Sudanese military personnel was privy to the operations. Al-Burhan has categorically rejected the allegations, asserting that the military has never used chemical or incendiary weapons, and instead, he claims such weapons have been utilized by the RSF. The situation is exacerbated by the ongoing humanitarian crisis, as aid organizations express fear that the military's potential retaliation could further hinder food deliveries to the civilian population. The U.S. government has also imposed sanctions on the RSF, accusing them of committing genocide amid the civil war.

The Sudanese military has recaptured the strategically significant city of Wad Madani from the paramilitary group Rapid Support Forces (RSF), marking a potential turning point in nearly two years of brutal conflict. The United States has formally classified the atrocities occurring in the Darfur region as genocide, prompting heightened international scrutiny. Located approximately 150 kilometers southeast of Khartoum, Wad Madani is critical as it connects essential supply routes between various states and serves as the capital of Gezira state, historically known as the "breadbasket" of Sudan. The military's recent victory is its most substantial since the outbreak of war and could shift the focus of conflict towards the capital. RSF leader Mohammed Hamdan Daglo, known as Hemeti, acknowledged the loss in an audio message but expressed determination to reclaim the city. This defeat for the RSF comes just over a year after they initially seized Wad Madani, causing significant displacement and unrest across the country. The conflict has led to the forced migration of over twelve million people, with nearly twenty-five million—approximately half of Sudan's population—facing food insecurity. According to recent United Nations reports, 70 to 80 percent of hospitals in conflict-affected areas are non-operational, contributing to the escalating humanitarian crisis. Both the Sudanese military and RSF have been accused of committing war crimes, with the most intense violence reported in Darfur, where rival ethnic groups have been targeted. The U.S. government has imposed sanctions on Daglo and several companies in the United Arab Emirates for their involvement in supporting the RSF, particularly through gold smuggling used to fund their military efforts. The continuing strife in Sudan stems from a power struggle between military general Abdelfatah Burhan and RSF leader Daglo, following their rise to power after the ousting of former ruler Omar al-Bashir in 2019. Their alliance has since fractured, igniting a violent battle for supremacy.

The Sudanese military successfully recaptured the strategically important city of Wad Madani from the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) over the weekend. The U.S. government, which has recently classified the violence in the region as genocide, reports that the RSF has been responsible for grave atrocities since early January. Wad Madani, located approximately 150 kilometers southeast of the capital, Khartoum, holds significant strategic value due to its position at the intersection of crucial supply routes connecting several states. It is also the capital of Gezira state, known as the "granary of Sudan" during peaceful times. The military’s control of the city could represent its most significant victory since the conflict began nearly two years ago. In a message on his Telegram channel, RSF leader Mohammed Hamdan Daglo, known as Hemeti, acknowledged the loss but expressed intent to reclaim the city swiftly. The RSF initially seized control of Wad Madani about a year ago, which led to the displacement of tens of thousands of residents and widespread insecurity. The ongoing conflict has exacerbated a severe humanitarian crisis, with over 12 million individuals fleeing from the violence to neighboring Chad and other countries. The United Nations reports that nearly 25 million people, roughly half of Sudan's population, face food insecurity, with many suffering from acute or chronic hunger. Compounding the dire situation, the medical infrastructure in Sudan has nearly collapsed, with 70% to 80% of hospitals in conflict zones rendered non-operational. Both the Sudanese military and the RSF have committed atrocities, particularly in the Darfur region, where mass killings of rival ethnic groups have been reported. The U.S. has imposed sanctions on Daglo and several associated companies in the UAE for their roles in the conflict and illicit gold trade. The violence in Sudan stems from a power struggle between military general Abdelfatah Burhan and RSF leader Daglo, whose alliance dissolved four years after they initially overthrew former ruler Omar al-Bashir.

The Sudanese military has recently regained control of Wad Madani, a key city approximately 150 kilometers southeast of Khartoum, in a significant development in the ongoing conflict that has persisted for nearly two years. The city was previously held by the paramilitary group Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which has faced accusations of committing genocide in the region. The U.S. government officially categorized the violent acts in Darfur as genocide earlier this month, prompting sanctions against RSF leader Mohammed Hamdan Daglo and several companies alleged to be supporting RSF activities. Wad Madani is strategically important as it sits at the intersection of vital supply routes connecting multiple states and was recognized as Sudan's breadbasket during peacetime. Regaining control of the city marks the military's most notable achievement since the outbreak of hostilities began. As fighting escalates, over 12 million people have been displaced within Sudan and across neighboring countries, leading to what the United Nations describes as one of the worst humanitarian crises worldwide. Recent reports indicate that nearly half of Sudan's population, approximately 25 million people, face food insecurity, with many suffering from acute and chronic hunger. Both the Sudanese military and the RSF have been implicated in committing atrocities, with intense violence reported in Darfur, where members of rival ethnic groups have been targeted. The conflict originated from power struggles between military general Abdelfatah Burhan and RSF leader Daglo, following a coup in 2019 that ousted longtime ruler Omar al-Bashir. Experts predict that fighting may now shift further toward Khartoum as the military seeks to consolidate its recent gains.

The Sudanese army has successfully recaptured the city of Uad Madani from paramilitary forces, marking a significant victory in the ongoing civil conflict that has plagued the nation for over a year and a half. Situated at the gates of the capital, Khartoum, Uad Madani was seized by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in December 2023, following a swift takeover when the regular army retreated. On Saturday, January 11, 2025, army spokesperson Nabil Abdallah confirmed that troops had entered Uad Madani in the morning and were working to eliminate remaining rebel pockets in the city. This operation is seen as a critical advancement, especially for an army that had faced severe criticism and loss of public trust following its earlier withdrawal from the area. Civilian celebrations erupted in Uad Madani and other cities, including Omdurman, after the army’s entry was announced. In recent months, the Sudanese army has been gaining ground in the central state of Jazira and began encircling Uad Madani from multiple directions, resulting in the RSF's apparent decision to retreat. The conflict in Sudan, intensified by ethnic violence and humanitarian crises, has drawn international attention. The recent recapture of Uad Madani may alter the dynamics of the ongoing strife, particularly as tensions continue in Khartoum, where the RSF remains defensive.

The United States has formally declared that Sudan's Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have committed genocide during the country's civil war, marking a significant moment in the ongoing humanitarian crisis. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced the determination on January 7, 2025, detailing a pattern of systematic ethnic violence primarily in west Darfur, where the RSF has been accused of targeting civilians, obstructing access to vital supplies, and committing atrocities against specific ethnic groups. Blinken's statement followed months of deliberation, concluding that the RSF and allied militias had engaged in crimes against humanity and ethnic cleansing. He highlighted the disturbing acts of violence, including the systematic murder of men and boys, targeting of women and girls for sexual violence, and massacres of fleeing civilians. In light of these findings, Blinken imposed sanctions on RSF commander Mohammad Hamdan Daglo, known as Hemedti, and announced sanctions against several entities linked to the RSF, including companies in the United Arab Emirates believed to facilitate arms procurement. The civil war, which erupted in 2023, has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and created one of the world's worst humanitarian crises, displacing around 12 million people. The conflict primarily stems from a breakdown of an alliance between Hemedti and Sudanese army general Abdel Fattah al-Burhan. The U.S. designation of genocide comes nearly two decades after a previous declaration about atrocities committed in Darfur by the RSF's predecessor, the Janjaweed militias. The recent genocide determination, alongside the imposition of sanctions, may pave the way for further international actions against the RSF and those supporting its operations.

The United States has officially declared that Sudan's Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have committed genocide during the ongoing civil war, which began in 2023. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced this determination on Tuesday, citing "systematic atrocities" committed by the RSF, particularly in west Darfur. In response, the US imposed sanctions on RSF commander Mohammad Hamdan Daglo, commonly known as Hemedti. Blinken detailed a pattern of ethnic violence where RSF militias have targeted civilians, obstructed access to essential supplies, and committed horrific acts including mass killings and sexual violence against specific ethnic groups. The announcement comes as part of a broader global scrutiny of the US's stance on international conflicts. The RSF, which originated from the Janjaweed militias notorious for their actions in Darfur in the early 2000s, has been accused of escalating violence since a fallout with the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) that resulted in a brutal civil war. As of now, tens of thousands of people have died, and approximately 12 million have been displaced, contributing to one of the world's worst humanitarian crises. In addition to sanctions against Hemedti, the US Treasury Department has targeted eight entities, including companies based in the UAE accused of providing military support to the RSF. Blinken emphasized the US commitment to holding accountable those responsible for these atrocities and hinted at potential further international actions against the RSF.

The United States has officially accused the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia in Sudan of committing genocide, escalating global scrutiny of the ongoing conflict that has spiraled into one of the world's largest humanitarian disasters. This accusation places increased pressure on the RSF's financiers, particularly the United Arab Emirates, a U.S. ally that has supported RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan "Hemedti" Dagalo. In the Sudanese city of El Geneina, located in the Darfur region, local residents like teacher Nima have been desperately seeking safety amidst the violence. In June 2023, RSF forces surged into her neighborhood, resulting in the deaths of over 80 people. Nima and her neighbors searched for refuge in places such as police stations, schools, and mosques, but few options remained. The brutality of the attackers left some victims severely mutilated, underscoring the horrific nature of the violence. As the war in Sudan continues to evolve, the international community is increasingly called upon to respond to the escalating humanitarian needs of the affected population.

In a significant move, the Biden administration has accused Sudan's Rapid Support Forces (RSF) of committing genocide against civilians and has imposed sanctions on its leader, Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, also known as Hemeti. The allegations come amid a protracted civil war in Sudan, where ongoing violence has left hundreds of thousands starving and has seen the targeted killing and rape of women and children. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that the RSF and allied militias have systematically attacked civilians, committing acts of ethnic-based murder and selecting women and girls from specific groups for sexual violence. "Based on this information, I have concluded that members of the RSF and associated militias have committed genocide in Sudan," Blinken remarked. The US sanctions target Daglo and seven companies based in the United Arab Emirates that are said to support the RSF, allegedly involved in trading gold smuggled out of Sudan, despite UAE's denial of any military assistance to the RSF. The conflict, which flared up in April 2023 over a power struggle between Sudan’s military ruler Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his former deputy Daglo, has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and displaced millions. The United Nations has repeatedly warned of a worsening humanitarian situation, with increasing numbers of people at risk of famine as aid access dwindles.

Sudan's army chief has welcomed Turkey's offer to mediate in the ongoing conflict that has gripped the nation for over 20 months. During a meeting in Port Sudan, Sudanese Foreign Minister Ali Youssef confirmed that the Sudanese leadership has expressed their approval of Turkey's initiative, which aims to foster peace and stability in the war-torn country. The Turkish mediation proposal follows a phone call in December 2024 between Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Sudan's Abdel Fattah al-Burhan. Erdogan emphasized Turkey's willingness to assist in resolving disputes, including those between Sudan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), amid allegations that the UAE has backed the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Youssef stated, "Sudan needs brothers and friends like Turkey," highlighting the potential for this initiative to lead to lasting peace. Following the discussions, Turkey's deputy foreign minister Burhanettin Duran reaffirmed Ankara's readiness to mobilize support from regional actors to address the escalating conflict. As the violence continues, reports indicate that tens of thousands have been killed, and approximately 12 million people have been displaced, pushing Sudan towards a humanitarian crisis. The situation remains precarious, with international observers concerned that external involvement may further complicate efforts to achieve lasting peace.

The rich historical heritage of Sudan, known for its numerous pyramids and ancient relics, faces unprecedented risks due to a devastating war that has halted tourism and led to widespread looting of cultural treasures. The conflict has intensified, particularly in regions surrounding significant archaeological sites, including the UNESCO heritage site of Meroë. Sudan is home to more pyramids than any other nation, built by the Nubian civilization that rivaled ancient Egypt. However, tourism has completely collapsed, leaving guides like Abdelmagid struggling to support their families. "We have had no salaries for months," he said, describing the dire economic situation that has left him in debt to provide for his eight children. In Khartoum, the National Museum of Sudan has become a stronghold for the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group currently battling the Sudanese army for dominance. Reports indicate that the RSF has looted many cultural artifacts from the museum and sold them off, exacerbating the ongoing erasure of Sudan's rich history. Historical figures such as the warrior queens known as "Kandakas" highlight the importance of Sudan's past. Once celebrated for their formidable leadership, these queens defended their land and were central to the kingdom's strength. They have recently been re-emphasized in Sudanese culture, particularly following the 2019 revolution against military dictator Omar al Bashir. Despite the long struggle for recognition and pride in Sudan's storied past, the current conflict threatens to obliterate centuries of heritage, leaving both tangible and intangible elements of the nation's history at risk of being lost forever.

Sudan is experiencing one of the most severe humanitarian crises in the world, driven by a brutal civil war that has lasted over a year and a half. Armed conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and paramilitary groups has resulted in hundreds of thousands of casualties, widespread malnutrition, and severe shortages of essential supplies. The fighting has escalated since September, particularly around the capital Khartoum, Gezira State, and El Fasher in North Darfur. Military operations have intensified, leading to increased civilian suffering, while foreign interference complicates the situation further. Currently, more than 8.7 million people are displaced, with many fleeing to neighboring countries. The crisis has left approximately 24 million Sudanese—half the country’s population—facing food insecurity. Recent reports indicate that famine is threatening at least five areas in the west and south, with predictions that more regions will face starvation soon. The war has devastated public health, resulting in 70-80% of health facilities in conflict zones being closed or non-functional. A cholera outbreak, worsened by flooding, poses additional health risks, particularly for displaced populations. Despite the dire situation, humanitarian groups report obstacles in delivering aid due to insecurity and bureaucratic hurdles. However, there has been a slight increase in ongoing aid efforts following the end of the rainy season, with more shipments being allowed to reach isolated areas. Local mutual aid initiatives are playing a critical role amidst the crisis, though they also face violent attacks. Experts warn that a more substantial international response is essential to address the humanitarian needs effectively.