Sudan Addresses Foreign Diplomats on Rising South Sudan Tensions and Humanitarian Concerns
Sudan briefed foreign diplomats on January 25, 2025, about escalating tensions with South Sudan due to recent violence and human rights abuses attributed to the RSF. The foreign ministry emphasized the deteriorating relations following attacks that resulted in casualties and the humanitarian crisis affecting millions in Sudan. The discussion included Sudan’s recent diplomatic challenges and the need for international humanitarian assistance.
On January 25, 2025, Sudan’s foreign ministry provided foreign diplomats with a briefing concerning the rising tensions with South Sudan, ongoing human rights violations attributed to the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), and the humanitarian crises faced by Sudan. The relationship with South Sudan has worsened following violent incidents that resulted in the deaths of South Sudanese citizens in Wad Madani, attributed to actions by the Sudanese army and its allies.
Sudan’s Foreign Ministry Under-Secretary, Hussein al-Amin al-Fadil, detailed five primary issues during the briefing. This included the provocative remarks made by South Sudan’s leadership post the Wad Madani incident, which subsequently incited violent reprisal attacks against the Sudanese diplomatic mission and its citizens within South Sudan. The briefing also addressed contentious actions by South Sudan in the Abyei region, which is under special governance and international regulations.
Following the attack in Wad Madani, Sudan’s Foreign Minister, Ramadan Mohamed Abdallah, called for a UN Security Council investigation. However, the foreign ministry criticized this move, emphasizing that General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, head of Sudan’s Sovereign Council, had already instituted an investigative committee for the incident. Furthermore, the briefing tackled recent U.S. sanctions imposed on Burhan, which the Sudanese government contested.
Al-Fadil highlighted that President Burhan, during his visits to several West African nations, addressed the ongoing conflict, allegations of external interference, and the Sudanese perspective on fostering resolution and bilateral cooperation. The final topic of discussion encompassed the critical humanitarian crisis plaguing Sudan, with accusations against the RSF regarding assaults on vital infrastructure including electricity and water facilities.
According to the United Nations, an estimated 30.4 million individuals in Sudan—representing 64% of the population—are in dire need of humanitarian assistance. This includes approximately 8.9 million internally displaced persons. UN agencies are seeking $4.2 billion to support nearly 21 million people, among whom 1.7 million are currently on the brink of famine.
The tensions between Sudan and South Sudan have escalated due to recent violent incidents resulting in casualties and retaliations. The humanitarian crisis in Sudan is exacerbated by conflict-related atrocities, particularly those committed by paramilitary groups. The dire situation has drawn international attention, leading to discussions about potential investigations and the need for significant humanitarian aid to address the needs of millions affected by the ongoing crises.
In summary, the Sudanese government highlighted serious concerns regarding the deteriorating relationship with South Sudan, underscoring the implications of recent human rights abuses and a widespread humanitarian crisis. Key issues discussed include retaliatory violence and the call for international scrutiny, indicating a complex geopolitical environment that warrants close monitoring and engagement from the international community.
Original Source: sudantribune.com
