Fresh explosions have rocked areas near Sudan's capital Khartoum, just one day after the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) announced they would agree to a humanitarian ceasefire. The violent developments have cast serious doubt on peace efforts in the war-torn nation.
Night of Violence in Capital
Residents in army-controlled Khartoum reported being awakened overnight by the distinct sounds of drones and powerful explosions. According to eyewitness accounts shared with AFP news agency, the blasts occurred near a military base and a power station during the early hours of Friday morning.
The attacks extended beyond the capital, with drones also heard approximately 300 kilometers north of Khartoum in the military-controlled town of Atbara. One resident described the scene: "Anti-aircraft defences shot them down, but I saw fires breaking out and heard sounds of explosions in the east of the city."
Failed Ceasefire Efforts
The violence comes despite Thursday's announcement from the RSF that they had agreed to a humanitarian truce proposed by the United States, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt. The four-nation plan, initially presented in September, called for an immediate ceasefire to be followed by a permanent cessation of hostilities and transition to civilian rule.
Sudan's military-led government has expressed deep skepticism about the RSF's commitment to any truce. During a Friday press conference, Sudan's ambassador to South Africa, Osman Abufatima Adam Mohammed, stated that it was too early for his country to agree to the proposed plan.
"From our experience, we had many truces at the beginning of the war but every time there was no respect from [the RSF]," the ambassador explained. "They use these truces to move to new areas and make moves against the government."
International Dimensions and Humanitarian Crisis
The ambassador also strongly opposed the UAE's participation in ceasefire talks, repeating allegations that the Gulf nation has been supplying the RSF with weapons and foreign fighters. While UN experts have described these accusations as credible, the UAE has consistently denied any involvement with the paramilitary group.
The timing of the RSF's ceasefire announcement is particularly significant, coming immediately after the group seized control of el-Fasher, a key city they had been blockading for 18 months. This victory gives the paramilitary force control over the vast western region of Darfur, potentially strengthening their negotiating position in future peace talks.
However, the RSF now faces international condemnation following widespread reports of mass killings and sexual violence during the capture of el-Fasher - allegations the group has denied.
The conflict, which erupted in April 2023, has already caused catastrophic humanitarian consequences. According to recent data, at least 150,000 people have been killed while 12 million others have been forced from their homes. This week, a UN-backed global hunger monitor confirmed that famine conditions are spreading throughout conflict zones, adding another layer of urgency to international peace efforts.
