Sudan crisis escalates as regional and international actors urge dialogue and restraint.

Amanuel Biedemariam

Summary:

• Sudan is facing a violent conflict between the army and the RSF, two factions of the military government that seized power in a coup in 2021
• The conflict was triggered by a disagreement over a new transition to a civilian rule plan, which both sides were required to cede power under.
• The fighting has killed hundreds of people, displaced hundreds of thousands, and disrupted the economy and humanitarian aid.
• The AU, IGAD, UN, and other countries have called for an immediate cease-fire and a peaceful resolution, warning of the risk of regional instability and human rights violations.
• The army and the RSF have agreed to extend a cease-fire and engage in talks with leaders from South Sudan, Kenya, and Djibouti.

The African Union (AU), IGAD, and The United Nations have appealed to the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) to immediately stop their armed confrontations to protect civilians and infrastructure, and allow for political dialogue. Meanwhile, Ethiopia's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister met with the CEO of AUDA-NEPAD to discuss post-conflict reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts. In a statement for International Workers' Day, the Commissioner for Health, Humanitarian Affairs, and Social Development at the African Union Commission recognized the critical role played by workers across all sectors of society. The UN Secretary-General has also emphasized the need to contain the crisis in Sudan and prevent it from spreading to neighboring countries. The Army and RSF in Sudan have agreed to extend a cease-fire and engage in talks with leaders from South Sudan, Kenya, and Djibouti. Africa and the African Union

Antonio Guterres, the secretary-general of the UN, stated on Wednesday that it was "absolutely essential" that the issue in Sudan stay inside its boundaries and not endanger neighboring nations' efforts to establish democracy and achieve peace.

The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) proposed extending a one-week cease-fire and sending an army representative to hold discussions with South Sudan, Kenya, and Djibouti presidents. The Sudanese Army and RSF accepted this plan.