Khartoum: Sudan's ongoing war has reached a strategic stalemate, with neither side gaining a decisive advantage despite efforts to launch new offensives, acquire advanced weaponry, and form political alliances. The true victims of this conflict, however, are the Sudanese people, who face increasing hunger, displacement, and despair.
According to BBC, the Sudanese armed forces announced the recapture of central Khartoum in March, attributing their success to long-range sophisticated drones they allege were supplied by the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The UAE, however, denies these accusations and reports of backing the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) during the 27-month conflict. Meanwhile, the RSF has expanded its operations south of Khartoum, forming an alliance with Abdel Aziz al-Hilu and the Sudan People's Liberation Army-North to potentially open new supply routes to Ethiopia.
In North Darfur, the RSF's siege of el-Fasher, defended by Darfurian former rebels known as the Joint Forces, has led to a severe famine, particularly affecting residents of the Zamzam displaced camp. The RSF and allied Arab militias have faced accusations of genocide against the Massalit people of West Darfur, intensifying fears of reprisals among Zaghawa communities if the Joint Forces fall.
The situation is further complicated by accusations against Libyan forces loyal to General Khalifa Haftar for supporting RSF attacks, adding to the regional instability. Civilian movements, which previously played a key role in overthrowing Sudan's long-time leader Omar al-Bashir, are fractured and struggling for survival amidst the ongoing conflict.
The neighborhood committees, once central to Sudan's civic revolution, are now focused on humanitarian efforts, known as "Emergency Response Rooms." However, their effectiveness is hampered by a lack of funding, especially after the closure of USAID during the Trump administration. Both the army and RSF view civic activism as a threat, resulting in crackdowns on aid workers and human rights activists.
Efforts for a peace process have stalled, with the UN's peace plan based on an unrealistic military victory scenario. Diplomatic efforts remain divided, with Burhan holding a recognized position by the UN and Hemedti's parallel administration lacking credibility. A recent conference in London failed to chart a path to peace, highlighting the complexity of Sudan's conflict.
The geopolitical interests of regional powers further complicate the situation. Egypt's support for Burhan is tempered by concerns over Islamist influence, while the UAE's involvement with the RSF raises questions about its strategic goals. With Sudan's humanitarian crisis worsening, the international community's response remains inadequate, with only a fraction of the UN's appeal for aid being funded.
As more than half of Sudan's population faces displacement and famine, the need for a concerted international effort becomes increasingly urgent. Multilateral organizations like the United Nations and the African Union must advocate for human rights and work towards resolving Sudan's dire situation, ensuring that the country's long-suffering population receives the support and mercy they desperately need.