US, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Egypt Urge Sudan Truce and Civilian Transition
The United States, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Egypt called on Friday for a three-month humanitarian truce in Sudan, to be followed by a permanent ceasefire and a nine-month transition to civilian rule.
In a joint statement, the four countries emphasized that Sudan’s future government should reflect the aspirations of the Sudanese people, establishing an independent, civilian-led administration with broad legitimacy and accountability.
Sudan has been mired in conflict since April 2023, with fighting between the regular army — controlling most state institutions — and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Tens of thousands have been killed, millions displaced, and the UN describes the crisis as one of the world’s worst humanitarian emergencies.
The statement stressed that Sudan’s next government must be decided through an inclusive, transparent process, free from domination by either warring faction. It also excluded violent extremist groups linked to the Muslim Brotherhood from participating in the transition.
Diplomatic sources said the wording reflects a compromise, avoiding direct mention of either the army or RSF, amid prior disputes between Egypt (an ally of the army) and the UAE (accused of supplying arms to RSF, a charge it denies).
In a parallel move, the US imposed sanctions on Sudan’s army-aligned finance minister Gebreil Ibrahim and the Islamist militia Baraa Ibn-Malik Brigade, aiming to limit Islamist influence and curb Iran-linked destabilizing activity in the region.
Despite international pressure, fighting continues. The army controls the east, north, and central regions, while the RSF holds parts of the south and most of western Darfur, where it has recently declared a parallel government. The joint statement warned that no military solution exists and the ongoing conflict perpetuates civilian suffering and threatens regional stability.
