Sudan's Rapid Support Forces Agree to US Proposal for Humanitarian Ceasefire

In a significant development, Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) announced their agreement to a humanitarian ceasefire proposal put forward by the United States and Arab nations, expressing readiness to engage in talks aimed at ending the prolonged conflict with the Sudanese army.

The RSF’s statement on Thursday marks a rare moment of optimism in the two-and-a-half-year war that has ravaged Sudan, killed tens of thousands, and displaced millions. While the Sudanese army has yet to respond officially, sources say influential military leaders have shown reluctance toward the proposal.

According to the RSF, the group “looks forward to implementing the agreement and immediately commencing discussions on the arrangements for a cessation of hostilities and the fundamental principles guiding the political process in Sudan.”

The US State Department confirmed that Washington continues to engage directly with both parties to push forward the ceasefire initiative. “We urge both sides to respond to the US-led effort to conclude a humanitarian truce, given the urgency of ending the suffering of the Sudanese people,” said a spokesperson.

Growing Pressure for Peace

The proposal, supported by the United States, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Egypt, calls for a three-month humanitarian truce followed by negotiations toward a permanent ceasefire. It comes at a time when fighting has intensified in Darfur, particularly after the RSF seized control of El Fasher, a famine-hit city in western Sudan.

Witnesses have reported civilian casualties and abductions during and after the takeover, raising international concern. In response, RSF leaders have urged their fighters to protect civilians and vowed to prosecute those responsible for violations.

A Nation in Crisis

The war began in April 2023, when tensions between the RSF and the Sudanese army—once allies in power—boiled over amid disagreements about integrating forces under a unified command. The conflict has since plunged Sudan into a deep humanitarian crisis, leaving millions displaced and on the brink of starvation.

While previous ceasefire efforts have collapsed, observers say the latest US-backed initiative could represent a turning point if both sides commit to meaningful dialogue and restraint.

As Sudan edges toward yet another critical juncture, the world watches closely, hoping that the promise of peace can finally replace the sound of gunfire.