Hope on the Horizon: Can a Humanitarian Ceasefire Bring Peace to Sudan

Sudan has been gripped by conflict for over two and a half years, with the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese army locked in a bitter struggle. Recently, the RSF accepted a proposal from the United States and Arab nations for a humanitarian ceasefire. This development raises a critical question: can this ceasefire offer a real chance for peace in Sudan?

The Background of the Conflict

The fighting between the RSF and the Sudanese army has caused immense suffering across Sudan, especially in the western region of Darfur. The RSF’s recent seizure of al-Fashir, a city severely affected by famine, has strengthened their control over Darfur. Despite multiple ceasefire proposals over the years, none have succeeded in halting the violence.

The United States, under the administration of former President Donald Trump, has been actively working to end the conflict. The latest ceasefire proposal reflects ongoing international efforts to bring peace to Sudan. While the RSF has expressed willingness to engage in discussions about stopping hostilities, the Sudanese army has yet to respond formally.

What the Ceasefire Proposal Means

The RSF’s acceptance of the ceasefire proposal is significant. Their statement emphasized readiness to implement the agreement and start talks on the political process that could guide Sudan’s future. This shows a potential shift towards dialogue rather than continued fighting.

However, the army-led Security and Defense Council has not given a clear response. Some army leaders and their allies oppose the ceasefire, which complicates the path forward. Without the army’s full cooperation, the ceasefire risks being fragile or short-lived.

Challenges to Achieving Lasting Peace

Several obstacles stand in the way of a lasting ceasefire and peace in Sudan:

• Distrust between the RSF and the army: Years of conflict have deepened suspicion and hostility on both sides.

  
  

• Political divisions: Sudan’s political landscape is fragmented, making consensus difficult.

  
  

• Humanitarian crisis: The ongoing famine and displacement in Darfur add urgency but also strain resources.

  
  

• Lack of enforcement mechanisms: Past ceasefires failed partly because there were no strong systems to monitor and enforce agreements.

  
  

These challenges mean that even if the ceasefire holds temporarily, much work remains to build a sustainable peace.

The Role of International Actors

International players like the United States and Arab nations have played a key role in proposing the ceasefire. Their involvement brings diplomatic pressure and resources that can support peace efforts. For example, humanitarian aid can reach vulnerable populations if fighting stops.

International mediation can also help bridge gaps between the RSF and the army. Neutral facilitators can guide discussions on political arrangements and security guarantees. This support is crucial given the complexity of Sudan’s conflict.

What Needs to Happen Next

For the ceasefire to lead to real peace, several steps are essential:

• Sudanese army’s formal acceptance: Without this, the ceasefire cannot be fully effective.

  
  

• Clear terms and monitoring: Agreements must include detailed plans for how fighting will stop and how violations will be addressed.

  
  

• Inclusive political dialogue: All key groups in Sudan should participate in talks to ensure broad support.

  
  

• Humanitarian access: Aid organizations need safe passage to deliver food, medicine, and other essentials.

  
  

• Long-term peacebuilding: Beyond stopping the fighting, efforts must focus on reconciliation, justice, and rebuilding communities.

  
  

Why This Ceasefire Could Be Different

Unlike previous attempts, this ceasefire comes after the RSF’s recent territorial gains, which may give them more incentive to negotiate. The involvement of multiple international actors also increases the chances of sustained pressure for peace.

The RSF’s public statement about starting political discussions signals a willingness to move beyond military conflict. If the Sudanese army joins these talks, it could mark a turning point in Sudan’s troubled history.

What This Means for Sudan’s People

For millions of Sudanese caught in the conflict, a ceasefire offers hope for relief from violence and hunger. Access to humanitarian aid could improve health and safety in war-torn areas. Families displaced by fighting might begin to return home.

Still, peace will not come overnight. The road ahead requires patience, commitment, and cooperation from all parties. The international community and Sudanese leaders must work together to ensure that this ceasefire is not just a pause in fighting but a step toward lasting peace.