Sudan's army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan has ruled out negotiations with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), stating that the military will continue its campaign to regain territory held by the paramilitary group. This announcement was made during a visit to the Amri area in Northern State, where Burhan attended a ceremony marking the opening of Al-Karama Secondary School. The visit took place on October 6, 2026, as part of efforts to boost morale and support for the army in the region.
The conflict between Sudan's army and the RSF began in April 2023 and has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths, millions displaced, and a severe humanitarian crisis. Despite international mediation efforts, the two sides have failed to reach a lasting ceasefire. Burhan's remarks come as a setback to these efforts, indicating that the military is committed to achieving a military victory. The RSF has been a significant challenge to the Sudanese government, controlling large areas of the country.
During his visit, Burhan praised the residents of Amri for their support for the army during the ongoing war. He also pledged government assistance to address the area's basic services and development needs. This commitment aims to improve living conditions and provide essential services to the local population. The government's efforts to support affected areas are crucial in addressing the humanitarian crisis.
The United States has been actively involved in mediation efforts, with senior adviser Massad Boulos meeting Burhan in Egypt recently. Washington has proposed a 90-day humanitarian ceasefire followed by negotiations, but the army has sought changes to the plan. One of the key demands is a full RSF withdrawal from cities it controls. The involvement of international mediators highlights the global concern over the conflict's impact.
Northern State Governor Abdelrahman Abdelhamid accompanied Burhan during his visit and announced that the state government would work to address longstanding problems in Amri. These include agricultural and public-service needs, which are critical to the region's development. The governor also inaugurated drinking-water wells and inspected various projects, including an agricultural project and healthcare facilities.
The Amri area has been significantly affected by the conflict, with residents facing challenges in accessing basic services. The government's initiatives aim to alleviate these challenges and provide much-needed support. By addressing these needs, the government hopes to improve the quality of life for local residents and promote stability in the region.
The conflict in Sudan remains a pressing concern for the international community, with ongoing efforts to broker a lasting peace. However, Burhan's stance on negotiations with the RSF presents a significant obstacle. The military's commitment to a military victory underscores the complexities of the situation, highlighting the need for continued diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict.
Key points
- Sudan's army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan rules out negotiations with the Rapid Support Forces.
- The conflict between Sudan's army and the RSF has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and millions displaced.
- International mediators, including the United States, are working to revive efforts to end the conflict.
