Sameera Casmod | sameerac@radioislam.co.za
03 November 2023 | 08:35 CAT
1-min read

• Sudan peace talks resume in Saudi Arabia.
• The Sudan war, ongoing since late 2021, has escalated between the Rapid Support Forces and the Sudanese military, resulting in a severe humanitarian crisis.
• Limited media coverage and overshadowing by global events have hindered international attention and effective resolution efforts.

In the latest attempt at peace talks between warring factions in Sudan, a series of challenges have cast doubt on the prospects of a lasting resolution. The conflict, which traces back to late 2021, has seen fierce power struggles between the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese military, resulting in a staggering death toll, widespread displacement, and a humanitarian crisis affecting millions.

Hafez Ibrahim Deen discussed the underlying complexities hindering successful mediation during the Media Lens on Radio Islam International.

He noted that for the past six months, the Sudanese conflict has struggled to garner attention in the shadow of global events such as the Russia-Ukraine crisis and the recent war on Gaza. Unfortunately, the lack of media coverage has contributed to a general ignorance of the ongoing humanitarian catastrophe in Sudan.

Moreover, the involvement of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as a primary supporter of the RSF has raised concerns regarding the credibility of any agreements reached during the peace talks. The UAE’s significant role in Sudan, including its anti-Islamist stance and interest in Sudanese gold, has influenced the conflict’s trajectory, with incentives for the involved parties to continue their pursuit of military gains.

With recent territorial advancements by the RSF, including the capture of Nyala, the situation remains volatile and poses a heightened risk of further escalation. “The capture of Nyala allows the RSF to establish a border with Chad, potentially intensifying the conflict in the upcoming months,” the Hafez Deen added.

Despite ongoing peace talks facilitated by Saudi Arabia, the path to a meaningful ceasefire remains uncertain, with the absence of critical stakeholders and continued incentives for conflict perpetuation. Amid these challenges, the plight of the Sudanese people continues to be overshadowed by larger global events, leaving the conflict largely forgotten and the prospects of a sustainable resolution in doubt.

Listen to the Media Lens on Sabaahul Muslim with Moulana Sulaimaan Ravat.