The city of Khartoum was hit by bombing and shelling on Friday, but the army and its chief, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, have not made any immediate comments on a ceasefire. The Rapid Support Forces (RSF), who are fighting against the Sudanese army, announced a truce during the period of Eid al-Fitr to create humanitarian corridors and give citizens the opportunity to reunite with their families. The conflict between the RSF and Sudan's army started on Saturday, causing significant damage to the country's transition to a civilian democracy. The RSF claims it acted in self-defense against a coup attempt, but the clashes have resulted in the deaths of at least 350 people, including civilians.
The violence has put an end to Sudan's hopes for democratic progress, which could trigger neighboring countries' involvement and draw Russia and the United States into regional competition. On Thursday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres appealed for a ceasefire to allow civilians to seek refuge. Thousands of civilians have already fled Khartoum to escape the fighting, and at least 26 people were killed in El-Obeid, a city west of Khartoum.
Guterres has urged a three-day ceasefire, allowing civilians in conflict zones to seek medical treatment, food, and other supplies. The United States endorsed the ceasefire proposal, while Burhan stated he would only support a truce if it allowed citizens to move freely, which he claims the RSF has prevented.
The violence has centered on the Khartoum compound housing the army headquarters and Burhan's residence, with the embassy district and airport also experiencing clashes. Many people have gathered with their suitcases, and several remain trapped in a city that has become a war zone. Hospitals have been closed, and thousands of foreigners are stranded in the area. About 10,000 to 20,000 people have sought refuge in villages inside Chad, while approximately 25% of Sudan's population already faces acute hunger.
