Did Sudan's Army Chief Just Agree to a Humanitarian Truce in El Fasher?
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Synopsis
In a significant move, Sudan's army chief, Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, has accepted a one-week humanitarian truce in El Fasher. This decision, influenced by a call from UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, aims to facilitate relief efforts for thousands of civilians trapped in the capital of North Darfur amidst escalating violence.
Key Takeaways
- Humanitarian truce approved for one week in El Fasher.
- Ceasefire initiated after a call from UN Secretary-General.
- El Fasher faces severe shortages due to RSF blockade.
- Approximately 1.5 million residents in the city.
- Conflict has caused massive displacement and fatalities.
Khartoum, June 27 (NationPress) The Chairman of Sudan's Transitional Sovereignty Council, Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, has consented to a one-week humanitarian ceasefire in El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur State in western Sudan, as announced by the council on Friday.
During a phone conversation earlier on Friday, Al-Burhan, who also leads the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), agreed to a ceasefire request made by United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, according to a statement from the Sovereignty Council.
The statement noted, "The UN Secretary-General urged for a one-week humanitarian ceasefire in El Fasher to facilitate relief operations and ensure that aid reaches thousands of civilians trapped in the city, a proposal that the head of the Sovereignty Council accepted."
Al-Burhan emphasized the necessity of enforcing UN Security Council resolutions that call for an end to the Rapid Support Forces' (RSF) blockade on El Fasher, as reported by Xinhua news agency. The RSF has maintained a blockade on El Fasher since May 2024, which has involved daily shelling and fierce urban combat between the RSF and the SAF. This blockade has resulted in severe shortages of vital goods and medical supplies.
El Fasher plays a crucial role as an administrative center for the Darfur region, which is composed of five states. It is the only state capital in Darfur that remains outside of RSF control.
The city, which is home to three camps for displaced individuals, including Abu Shouk, Zamzam, and Al-Salam, has approximately 1.5 million residents, with 800,000 internally displaced, according to UN statistics.
Since April 2023, Sudan has been embroiled in a devastating conflict between the SAF and the RSF. This war has resulted in tens of thousands of fatalities and has displaced millions, forcing many to flee both within Sudan and across its borders.
Point of View
We stand firmly with the nation in highlighting the importance of this humanitarian truce. The ongoing conflict has led to devastating consequences for the civilians of Sudan, and while this ceasefire is a positive step, sustained efforts are essential to ensure lasting peace and safety for all.
NationPress
27/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the humanitarian truce in El Fasher?
The humanitarian truce in El Fasher is a one-week ceasefire agreed upon by Sudan's army chief, Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, aimed at facilitating relief efforts for civilians trapped in the conflict.
Who requested the ceasefire?
The ceasefire was requested by United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres during a phone call with Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan.
What is the current situation in El Fasher?
El Fasher is under a blockade by the Rapid Support Forces, leading to significant shortages of essential goods and medical supplies, with ongoing urban battles affecting the civilian population.
How many people are affected in El Fasher?
The city is home to approximately 1.5 million people, with around 800,000 internally displaced, according to UN figures.
What is the conflict in Sudan about?
The conflict in Sudan involves a brutal struggle between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and millions displaced.
