Sudan’s Burhan sets conditions for peace talks with RSF
March 19, 2026 (KHARTOUM) – Sudan’s army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan said on Thursday that any peace initiative with the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) would only be considered if it meets specific conditions.
In a speech to the Sudanese people marking Eid al-Fitr, Burhan stated that the state leadership is committed to engaging positively with sincere peace proposals. However, he emphasized that these must ensure security without “reproducing the war” or maintaining its underlying causes.
Burhan called on mediators and those seeking an end to the conflict to fulfil their responsibilities. He urged them to assist in implementing peace initiatives previously presented by the Sudanese government.
He noted that government initiatives are rooted in the will of the Sudanese people. He said they respond to demands to dismantle and end any political or military role for the “rebel militia,” accusing the group of committing war crimes and genocide.
The Quad group, comprising the United States, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Egypt, is currently proposing a humanitarian truce initiative. This plan aims to lead to a ceasefire and a subsequent political process for a civilian transition.
The Sudanese government has rejected the Quad initiative, citing the United Arab Emirates’ involvement. Khartoum has accused the UAE of supporting the RSF while seeking to manipulate peace negotiations to benefit the paramilitary organization.
The army leader reiterated his refusal of any truce or ceasefire until the RSF withdraws from its current positions and consolidates its forces. He argued this is necessary to pave the way for a serious peace process that ends the war rather than merely freezing it.
Burhan stressed that any peace project must be comprehensive and include a specific timeline. He said it must lead to a permanent and just peace that ensures no weapons remain outside of state institutions and no forces exist outside of national legitimacy.
Burhan pledged to continue operations against the RSF and its allies while working to restore civilian life. He also committed to establishing foundations for a peaceful transfer of power to reach a unified and secure Sudan.