Violations reported on first day of humanitarian truce in Sudan
May 23, 2023 (KHARTOUM) – The first day of the Short-Term Ceasefire in Sudan has witnessed reported violations, as highlighted in a joint statement issued by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United States, acting as facilitators in the agreement.
Expressing deep concern, the facilitators noted that both sides failed to adhere to their commitment of refraining from seeking military advantage during the 48-hour period after signing the agreement but before its official commencement.
Although the intensity of fighting in Khartoum appeared to have diminished compared to previous days, reports received by the facilitators indicated that the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces violated the terms of the agreement.
The statement emphasized that the violations included “reported offensive operations in Khartoum and El-Obeid, airstrikes, and the use of artillery,” as pointed out by the joint monitoring mechanism.
Following the signing of the truce deal, U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken delivered a video message, vowing to hold violators of the ceasefire accountable through the utilization of sanctions and other available means.
Blinken underscored the responsibility of the Sudanese army and the RSF in implementing the ceasefire agreement facilitated by the U.S. and Saudi governments.
Recent reports indicated agitation and mobilization of RSF troops outside El-Obeid, the capital of North Kordofan, on Monday and Tuesday.
The Fifth Infantry Division of the Sudanese army, stationed in El-Obeid, played a significant role in preventing RSF reinforcements from Darfur over the past week.
However, the presence of RSF elements outside the regional capital hinders the Sudanese army from utilizing the much-needed infantry force against RSF elements in Khartoum.
The representatives of the Ceasefire Monitoring and Coordination Committee convened in Jeddah to address these violations, as stated in the joint statement.
“Constructive discussions were held regarding the delivery of humanitarian assistance, and the committee pledged to engage with their respective chains of command to address the allegations of ceasefire violations,” the statement conveyed.
Preparations are currently underway to facilitate the movement of vital humanitarian aid to the conflict-affected areas, emphasizing the urgent need to save lives.
The joint statement from the U.S. and Saudi Arabia underscored that the swift provision of humanitarian relief remains a top priority.
“The facilitators urge all parties to work towards the effective implementation of the ceasefire to alleviate the suffering of the Sudanese people,” the statement emphasized.
(ST)