Sudan faces severe economic crisis with widespread starvation and desertification

Sudanese Armed Forces Chief Reiterates Demand for Surrender of Rapid Support Forces

General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, head of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), has reaffirmed his stance on the conflict in Sudan, stating that the war will only end with the “surrender” of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Al-Burhan made this statement during an official visit to Ankara on Sunday.

The SAF chief emphasized that a military solution does not necessarily have to involve fighting, but rather can end with the disarmament of the RSF. He also highlighted the need for arms to be laid down as a condition for the war’s conclusion.

Meanwhile, the United Nations Secretary-General has called for an immediate ceasefire in Sudan’s ongoing civil war, which has created a severe humanitarian crisis. The UN reports that nearly 12 million people across Sudan are facing dire living conditions, with thousands of families sleeping rough and struggling to access basic necessities like food and medicine.

The situation on the ground is increasingly dire, with widespread hunger and displacement reported in various regions. The World Food Programme (WFP) has warned that rations in Sudan will be cut by up to 70 percent due to a collapse in international funding. The United Nations has also reduced its appeal for aid from $23 billion in 2026.

The conflict is intensifying, with new military escalations reported in North Darfur and Kordofan. The RSF has been attempting to advance on the strategic city of el-Obeid in North Kordofan, while the SAF has expanded its defensive perimeter around the city, leading to volatile battles in the surrounding countryside.

The humanitarian situation remains critical, with many areas becoming “ghost towns” due to the ongoing conflict. The Sudanese Red Crescent has reported a shortage of food items and medicine, particularly for children, and is seeking assistance from charity organizations.

Source: Al Jazeera