Sudan updated foreign diplomats on escalating tensions with South Sudan, citing human rights abuses by the RSF and a humanitarian crisis. Relations worsened after South Sudanese killings in Wad Madani; retaliatory attacks ensued. The briefing addressed allegations against South Sudan, U.S. sanctions on General Burhan, and humanitarian needs for millions of Sudanese.
On Saturday, January 25, 2025, Sudan provided foreign diplomats with an update regarding mounting tensions with South Sudan, allegations of human rights violations by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), and the ongoing humanitarian crisis within the country. The Foreign Ministry highlighted that relations with South Sudan had worsened following the killing of South Sudanese citizens in Wad Madani, which was reportedly carried out by the Sudanese army and allied forces.
The killings prompted retaliatory actions in South Sudan, resulting in the deaths of 16 Sudanese individuals and damage to Sudanese businesses, as detailed by Sudanese officials. Foreign Ministry Under-Secretary Hussein al-Amin al-Fadil briefed ambassadors and international organization representatives on these crucial developments in diplomatic relations.
During the briefing, Under-Secretary al-Fadil discussed statements made by the leadership of South Sudan, which he described as “provocative,” following the incidents in Al Jazirah. He raised concerns about retaliatory violence targeting the Sudanese diplomatic mission and citizens in South Sudan, as well as issues regarding the disputed Abyei region, which is regulated under a special agreement and UN Security Council resolutions.
Furthermore, Sudan’s Foreign Minister, Ramadan Mohamed Abdallah, has recently advocated for a United Nations Security Council investigation into the fatal shooting of Sudanese citizens in Wad Madani. The Foreign Ministry, however, rejected this proposal, noting the establishment of a committee by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, head of Sudan’s ruling Sovereign Council, tasked with probing the incident.
The briefing also included dialogue on the recent sanctions imposed by the United States against General Burhan, a move that Khartoum contests. Al-Fadil indicated that Burhan has discussed related conflicts, external interference, and potential resolutions during his visits to countries including Mali, Sierra Leone, and Mauritania.
Moreover, the humanitarian situation was extensively reviewed. Al-Fadil underscored the alleged RSF violations involving assaults on critical infrastructure such as power stations and hospitals, while outlining the government’s strategies for civilian protection. The United Nations estimates that approximately 30.4 million people in Sudan, or 64% of the population, require humanitarian assistance this year, which includes 8.9 million internally displaced persons.
To address these needs, UN agencies are requesting $4.2 billion to aid approximately 20.9 million individuals, including 1.7 million facing famine risk.
The tensions between Sudan and South Sudan have escalated due to violent incidents and retaliations from both sides. The relationship has deteriorated significantly due to the killings of South Sudanese citizens in Sudan, causing retaliatory attacks in South Sudan. Additionally, the interference of paramilitary groups like the RSF in humanitarian crises highlights the civil and political instability facing the nations involved. This situation necessitates comprehensive international dialogue and investigations to restore peace and address the humanitarian needs of the affected populations.
In conclusion, the recent briefing indicates a serious diplomatic crisis between Sudan and South Sudan, stemming from violence and ongoing humanitarian issues. Sudan has rejected outside intervention in its internal affairs while emphasizing the humanitarian plight faced by millions of its citizens. Both nations must navigate these tensions carefully to foster peace and ensure humanitarian relief reaches those in dire need.
Original Source: sudantribune.com
