Sudan's military leader Abdel Fattah al-Burhan has stated that the army will not negotiate with the Rapid Support Forces and will continue fighting to restore government control across the country. This announcement was made on Tuesday, as the conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary group continues to escalate. Al-Burhan emphasized that the army will press ahead with its campaign to reclaim all territory held by the RSF. The conflict, which began in April 2023, has resulted in significant humanitarian concerns.
Speaking at a ceremony in Village 5, New Amri area of Merawi Locality in the Northern State, al-Burhan reiterated that the army has "no negotiations with anyone" and warned rebels that the forces would approach them "with force" to uproot and eliminate the enemy. The statement came as the Sudanese Armed Forces reported gains in North Kordofan and an advance toward En Nahud and Al Khuway. This indicates a focus on battlefield victories rather than diplomatic outreach.
The RSF continues to control large parts of western Sudan, leaving both sides locked in a struggle for key territories. The conflict has spread nationwide, causing civilian casualties, home destruction, and massive displacement. According to the UNHCR, about 11.3 million people have been forcibly displaced since the war began, including 6.4 million internally displaced and over 3.5 million who have fled to neighboring states.
Since the start of 2026, more than 55,000 Sudanese refugees have crossed into eastern Chad, with numbers rising as insecurity intensifies in Darfur, Kordofan, and the Blue Nile. The UN estimates that 33.7 million people in Sudan now need humanitarian assistance, underscoring the civilian cost of the ongoing army-RSF clash. The situation remains dire, with no immediate end to the conflict in sight.
The conflict began in April 2023 over a dispute about integrating the RSF into the regular army. Despite efforts to broker peace, the two sides have failed to reach an agreement, leading to continued violence and instability. Al-Burhan's statement suggests that the army is committed to a military solution, at least in the short term.
The Sudanese Armed Forces have made significant gains in recent weeks, but the RSF remains a formidable opponent. The group's control over large parts of western Sudan has allowed it to maintain a strong presence in the region. The army's focus on battlefield victories may lead to further clashes and humanitarian concerns.
The international community remains concerned about the situation in Sudan, with many countries calling for an end to the violence and a return to peace. The UN and other humanitarian organizations are working to provide assistance to those affected by the conflict, but the situation remains challenging.
Key points
- Sudan's army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan has ruled out negotiations with the Rapid Support Forces.
- The conflict has resulted in significant humanitarian concerns, including the displacement of 11.3 million people.
- The Sudanese Armed Forces are focused on battlefield victories, with gains reported in North Kordofan.
