In a joint statement from Saudi Arabia, the United States, and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) as representatives of both the African Union and IGAD, it has been announced that the Sudanese Armed Forces and Rapid Support Forces are committed to taking steps to facilitate the increase of humanitarian aid and the implementation of confidence-building measures.
This declaration comes in the wake of the Jeddah Talks aimed at easing the ongoing strife in Sudan.
The statement outlines a promise by the Sudanese military and Rapid Support Forces to engage in a joint humanitarian mechanism led by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).
The goal is to address obstacles hindering the delivery of relief aid, establishing contact points to ease the passage of humanitarian workers and assistance, and to implement confidence-building measures including communication mechanisms between military leaders, addressing escapees from prisons, improving media content, and de-escalating conflict rhetoric.
Both the Sudanese Armed Forces and Rapid Support Forces, as per the statement, have pledged individually to facilitate the flow of humanitarian aid, reflecting a significant step towards alleviating the suffering of the Sudanese people. The effectiveness of these commitments now rests on the full adherence of these forces to the agreed terms.
While the Jeddah Talks have not resulted in an agreement on a ceasefire, the commitments made represent an important stride in addressing the humanitarian crisis in Sudan. The statement expresses regret over the inability to reach a ceasefire agreement and urges both parties to prioritize the welfare of the Sudanese people, lay down their arms, and engage in negotiations to resolve the conflict.
