Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have announced a three-month unilateral humanitarian truce, raising new questions about the future of the country’s devastating civil war. The declaration came on Monday through a recorded address by RSF commander Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo — widely known as Hemedti.
The proposed truce is meant to allow humanitarian aid into areas devastated by 30 months of conflict. But the announcement immediately drew skepticism, as Sudan’s national army — the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan — did not confirm any agreement or signal willingness to participate.
A Truce Without a Partner?
Hemedti framed the ceasefire as a gesture aimed at easing the suffering of civilians trapped by fighting, hunger, and displacement. He claimed the RSF would halt attacks for 90 days to allow aid organizations to reach areas cut off by conflict.
But without a mutual agreement from the SAF, analysts warn the truce may have limited impact. Previous attempts at pauses have collapsed due to deep mistrust, fragmented control on the ground, and competing foreign interests backing both sides.
The SAF’s silence suggests the same obstacles remain.
A War With No Winner — Only Victims
Sudan’s brutal conflict—now entering its third year—has shattered cities, displaced over 10 million people, and created the world’s largest humanitarian crisis.
Violence between the RSF and SAF has destroyed the capital Khartoum, tormented civilians in Darfur, and destabilized the entire region. Humanitarian agencies warn that famine is looming in several states as aid convoys struggle to reach besieged communities.
For many families, news of another ceasefire — especially a unilateral one — brings little comfort. They have seen dozens of ceasefires announced and abandoned within hours.
Why the RSF Offered a Truce
Analysts believe the RSF’s move may be driven by multiple factors:
-
Mounting international pressure on both factions
-
Accusations of atrocities, including ethnic violence in Darfur
-
A desire to appear cooperative ahead of renewed diplomatic talks
-
Military fatigue after months of intense fighting
At the same time, the SAF may be reluctant to join a truce that could strengthen the RSF’s political legitimacy.
What Comes Next?
With no confirmation from the SAF, the effectiveness of Hemedti’s ceasefire remains uncertain. Still, the announcement highlights a growing recognition among both sides that the war cannot be won militarily.
International observers say Sudan desperately needs:
-
A mutual ceasefire
-
Secured humanitarian corridors
-
Civilian-led political dialogue
-
Accountability for atrocities committed by all parties
Until then, unilateral declarations — however well-intentioned — will not stop the suffering.
A Country Still Waiting for Peace
Sudan’s people have endured more than two years of relentless violence, starvation, and displacement.
They are not asking for speeches, or symbolic gestures — they are asking for survival.
Hemedti’s truce may be a step, but only a joint, enforceable, and monitored ceasefire can bring real relief.
Original East will continue following developments as Sudan’s humanitarian emergency unfolds
