Sudan Conflict - Part.1

Prior to the outbreak of large-scale violence in 2023, Sudan was in a fragile state of political transition following the 2019 overthrow of longtime dictator Omar al-Bashir. A civilian-military power-sharing arrangement was formed between the Forces of Freedom and Change (FFC) and the Sudanese military, including the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). However, tensions simmered between these groups due to disagreements over security reform, the timeline for democratic elections, and the integration of RSF into the national army. The lack of trust and competing ambitions among these factions created a volatile environment, with many Sudanese citizens left disillusioned by delays in civilian rule.

On April 15, 2023, violence erupted between the SAF, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the RSF, commanded by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (known as Hemedti). The conflict quickly escalated, turning cities like Khartoum into battlegrounds and causing a humanitarian catastrophe. Infrastructure was destroyed, thousands were killed, and millions were displaced internally and across borders. Both sides were accused of war crimes, including attacks on civilians, looting, and sexual violence. Efforts by regional and international actors to broker ceasefires repeatedly failed due to deep mistrust and lack of enforcement mechanisms.

As of mid-2025, the conflict in Sudan remains unresolved, with fighting still active in several regions, particularly Darfur and parts of Khartoum. The RSF controls significant territory in the west, while the SAF retains control of key military installations and eastern Sudan. Peace talks have stalled, and humanitarian access is severely limited, leaving millions without basic services. The war has created one of the world’s worst displacement crises, and prospects for a negotiated settlement remain uncertain. Despite international pressure, both warring factions show little willingness to compromise, leaving Sudan’s future in a prolonged state of instability.