Sudan’s warring parties recently concluded peace talks in Switzerland aimed at improving access for humanitarian aid in the war-torn country. The talks, facilitated by the United States and involving mediators from countries like Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates, focused on negotiating aid and protection for Sudanese civilians facing famine, displacement, and disease.
The mediators, known as the ALPS Group, identified two routes for aid to enter Sudan, one through Chad and the other from Port Sudan. Progress was also reported in opening a route through the Sennar Junction. While some aid trucks have already been dispatched, challenges remain in ensuring the safe and continuous flow of resources.
The talks highlighted the severe humanitarian crisis in Sudan, with millions facing acute hunger and famine. The conflict, ongoing since April 2023, has led to widespread displacement and death, prompting the declaration of an emergency by the World Food Programme. Despite some progress in the talks, the absence of the Sudanese army hampered negotiations, raising concerns about achieving a national cessation of hostilities and protecting civilians.
Experts caution that without significant international pressure and consequences for non-compliance, progress in addressing the crisis in Sudan may be limited. Efforts to engage Sudan’s military leadership and ensure compliance with humanitarian laws and agreements continue, with calls for a unified approach and the use of leverage to bring about tangible change.
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