UN, regional bodies call for Ramadan truce in Sudan
February 12, 2026 (ADDIS ABABA) – A coalition of international and regional organizations on Thursday urged warring parties in Sudan to agree to a humanitarian truce ahead of the holy month of Ramadan to allow for the delivery of life-saving aid and prevent further loss of life.
The group, known as the Quintet—comprising the United Nations, the African Union, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the League of Arab States, and the European Union—issued a joint statement emphasizing that such a pause could serve as a critical step toward a broader cessation of hostilities.
The Quintet strongly urged all concerned to seize the opportunity presented by ongoing efforts to broker a truce and to immediately de-escalate hostilities. The organizations noted that these efforts should be pursued under clearly defined arrangements consistent with international law and relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions, including resolution 2736.
The call comes amid grave concern over the continued military escalation and the use of increasingly destructive warfare, which the group said is inflicting devastating harm on civilians. The organizations expressed particular alarm over the deteriorating situation in the Kordofan region and Blue Nile State, where reports of deadly drone strikes and tightening sieges around population centres have increased.
The statement highlighted attacks on critical civilian infrastructure, including hospitals and schools, as well as threats to humanitarian aid convoys and supply corridors. Recalling the destruction in El Fasher, the Quintet warned that repeated previous warnings had gone unheeded with devastating consequences for the population.
The organizations reminded all parties that the protection of civilians and national infrastructure is a fundamental obligation under international law and emphasized that perpetrators of serious violations must be held accountable. The group also called for an end to the flow of weapons and foreign support that sustains the violence and contributes to the fragmentation of the country.
Reaffirming their commitment to Sudan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, the five bodies pledged to facilitate an inclusive, Sudanese-owned political dialogue to end the war and establish a peaceful transition.