The conflict in Sudan, which began in April 2023, has escalated into a full-blown civil war, pitting the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). By 2025, the conflict has devolved into one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises, with millions displaced and the country teetering on the brink of famine. The once-vibrant capital of Khartoum has become a ghost town, its streets scarred by the ravages of war.
The Roots of the Conflict:
The conflict has its roots in a long-simmering power struggle between the SAF, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the RSF, a paramilitary group commanded by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, also known as Hemedti. The RSF, initially formed as a counter-insurgency force, has grown into a powerful military entity, challenging the SAF’s dominance.
The ongoing political transition, aimed at establishing civilian rule after the ouster of long-time dictator Omar al-Bashir in 2019, has further exacerbated tensions between the two factions. Disagreements over the integration of the RSF into the regular army and the pace of political reforms have fueled the conflict.
The Humanitarian Crisis:
The conflict has had a devastating impact on the civilian population. Millions have been displaced from their homes, seeking refuge in neighboring countries or internally displaced persons (IDP) camps. The humanitarian situation is dire, with widespread shortages of food, water, and medical supplies. Hospitals and schools have been destroyed, and access to essential services has been severely disrupted.
The conflict has also triggered a wave of violence against civilians. Reports of extrajudicial killings, arbitrary detentions, and sexual violence are widespread. The targeting of civilians has created a climate of fear and uncertainty, forcing many to flee their homes in search of safety.
The International Response:
The international community has struggled to respond effectively to the crisis. While humanitarian aid has been provided, it has been insufficient to address the scale of the needs. The conflict has also hindered the delivery of aid, with humanitarian workers facing significant security challenges.
Efforts to broker a ceasefire have been unsuccessful, with both sides remaining entrenched in their positions. The international community has called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and the protection of civilians. However, the lack of trust between the warring factions has made it difficult to achieve a lasting peace.
The Shadow of Darfur:
The conflict in Sudan has also raised fears of a return to the atrocities of the Darfur conflict, which claimed hundreds of thousands of lives in the early 2000s. The RSF, which has its roots in the Janjaweed militia, a notorious group accused of war crimes in Darfur, has been accused of committing similar atrocities in the current conflict.
The targeting of ethnic minorities, particularly in western Sudan, has raised concerns about a potential genocide. The international community has warned of the risk of a humanitarian catastrophe if the conflict is not brought under control.
The Path Forward:
The future of Sudan remains uncertain. The conflict has created a deep rift within the country, exacerbating existing ethnic and political tensions. The path to peace will be long and arduous, requiring a concerted effort from all stakeholders.
The international community must continue to exert pressure on both sides to cease hostilities and engage in meaningful dialogue. Humanitarian aid must be scaled up to address the urgent needs of the civilian population. Efforts must also be made to hold accountable those responsible for war crimes and other human rights abuses.
The conflict in Sudan is a tragedy for the Sudanese people and a threat to regional stability. The international community must act decisively to prevent further suffering and pave the way for a lasting peace. The future of Sudan hangs in the balance.