US Sudan Envoy Set to Confer with Suspected RSF Supporters

The recently appointed US Special Envoy to Sudan, Tom Perriello, has embarked on a diplomatic tour across East Africa and the Gulf, marking a significant diplomatic move ahead of the approaching first anniversary of Sudan’s civil war. The tour follows the UN Security Council’s recent call for a ceasefire during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

Perriello’s diplomatic journey encompasses key nations, including Ethiopia, Djibouti, Kenya, Uganda, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Notably, the UAE has faced widespread accusations of supporting the Sudanese paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) through funding and arming, though it vehemently denies these allegations.

Sudan finds itself grappling with one of the world’s largest displacement crises, and humanitarian agencies caution that it is on the verge of evolving into the most extensive hunger crisis globally. Against this backdrop, the US Special Envoy has emphasized that his primary focus during the trip is the urgent need to cease hostilities in Sudan and facilitate humanitarian access for the entire Sudanese population.

However, challenges loom even before Perriello’s departure, as reports indicate that a senior general in Sudan’s army has rejected the proposed Ramadan ceasefire. The rejection is contingent on the condition that the RSF withdraws from civilian and public sites, adding a layer of complexity to the already delicate diplomatic efforts.

Moreover, the United States is actively advocating for the opening of additional land routes for aid from Chad. The Sudanese army had previously closed access points, citing concerns that the RSF was exploiting them for transporting weapons. Currently, only one access point has been reopened, highlighting the intricate negotiations and logistical hurdles involved in addressing the humanitarian crisis.

In summary, Tom Perriello’s diplomatic tour through East Africa and the Gulf underscores the heightened international attention on Sudan’s civil war, particularly on the eve of its first anniversary. The focus on securing a ceasefire during Ramadan and enhancing humanitarian access emphasizes the urgency of addressing Sudan’s multifaceted challenges. The complexity of the situation is further highlighted by the nuanced conditions set by Sudanese military officials and the ongoing efforts to navigate logistical obstacles for aid delivery.