The conflict in Sudan has reached alarming new levels as armed clashes between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) continue to escalate. This intensification has not only deepened the humanitarian crisis in the region but also prompted urgent international calls for a ceasefire and increased humanitarian aid.
Background of the Conflict
The roots of Sudan’s ongoing war can be traced back to the ousting of long-time dictator Omar al-Bashir in 2019. Following his removal, the SAF and RSF, which had jointly seized control of the state, formed a transitional government. However, disputes over power-sharing and the transition to civilian rule led to a breakdown in relations. By April 2023, these tensions erupted into open conflict, turning Sudan into a battlefield.
Since then, the SAF, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the RSF, commanded by Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (known as Hemedti), have been locked in a violent struggle for dominance. The fighting has devastated urban centers like Khartoum and spread to 13 of Sudan’s 18 states, leaving a trail of destruction and displacement.
Recent Developments
In March 2025, the SAF regained control of Khartoum from the RSF after months of intense fighting. This victory marked a significant turning point but failed to bring peace. Instead, both factions have doubled down on their military campaigns. The SAF is seeking total victory, while the RSF has expanded its operations into previously untouched regions such as South Kordofan and Blue Nile states. These offensives have exacerbated inter-communal tensions and risk further fragmenting Sudan.
The conflict has also seen external powers playing influential roles. The SAF receives backing from countries like Egypt and Saudi Arabia, while the RSF is supported by the United Arab Emirates. This foreign involvement has fueled the war, with both sides acquiring advanced weaponry such as drones and counter-drone systems.
Humanitarian Catastrophe
The war has plunged Sudan into one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises. Over two years of violence have killed tens of thousands and displaced millions. The United Nations estimates that more than 30 million people—nearly two-thirds of Sudan’s population—will require humanitarian assistance in 2025. Acute food insecurity affects half of the pre-war population, with famine hotspots threatening millions of children under five.
Systemic sexual violence has emerged as a horrifying weapon of war, targeting women, girls, men, and boys alike. The collapse of social services means that survivors face limited access to justice or medical care. Meanwhile, an entire generation is being deprived of education as schools remain closed across conflict zones.
Humanitarian efforts are hampered by bureaucratic hurdles and security risks to aid workers. Despite international pledges for assistance, including significant contributions from countries like the UAE, aid delivery remains insufficient to meet growing needs.
International Response
The international community has intensified its calls for a ceasefire and political dialogue. The African Union and United Nations have urged all parties to halt hostilities during Ramadan to allow humanitarian aid to reach those in need. France and other nations have echoed these appeals while emphasizing Sudan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
However, diplomatic efforts face significant challenges. Both factions remain entrenched in their positions, unwilling to compromise on key issues such as governance structures and power-sharing arrangements. The RSF’s recent moves to establish a parallel government further complicate mediation efforts.
Risks of Escalation
The continued fighting threatens not only Sudan’s cohesion but also regional stability. Neighboring countries like Chad and South Sudan are already feeling the spillover effects through refugee flows and cross-border tensions. Prolonged warfare could lead to Sudan’s fragmentation into rival territories governed by competing factions.
Moreover, external interference risks turning Sudan into a proxy battleground for regional powers vying for influence along the strategic Red Sea corridor. Such developments would further destabilize an already fragile region.
Conclusion
Sudan stands at a critical juncture as its conflict intensifies with no clear resolution in sight. While international actors push for peace talks and humanitarian pauses, meaningful progress will require both factions to prioritize dialogue over military gains. Without immediate action, Sudan risks descending further into chaos, with devastating consequences for its people and neighboring states alike.
The world must act decisively to address this crisis—through sustained diplomatic pressure, increased humanitarian funding, and support for inclusive political solutions—to prevent an even greater catastrophe from unfolding in Sudan.