Saudi Arabia, U.S. urge extension of ceasefire in Sudan
May 28, 2023 (KHARTOUM) – The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United States of America, have jointly called on the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces on Sunday to renew the seven-day ceasefire that is set to expire at 9:45 pm Khartoum time on May 29.
In a joint statement released on Sunday, the facilitators of the Agreement on a Short-Term Ceasefire and Humanitarian Arrangements emphasized the importance of continued discussions between the warring parties to agree on extending the needed ceasefire to deliver critical humanitarian aid to the Sudanese.
They added that in the absence of an agreement to extend the current ceasefire, it is essential for both parties to uphold their obligations under the short-term respite and the preceding Declaration of Commitment to Protect the Civilians of Sudan.
Despite the humanitarian truce which started on May 22, the clashes continued in Khartoum and some areas of the Darfur region including Zalingei of the Central Darfur state.
Both Saudi Arabia and the United States emphasized the urgent need for unfettered access to humanitarian aid, including food, medical supplies, and shelter, to be provided to those affected by the conflict.
The international community has been closely monitoring the situation in Sudan, recognizing the need for a lasting and sustainable solution to the crisis.
The United Nations, International Red Cross, United States, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, the Sultanate of Oman and the UAE, among others, have delivered humanitarian aid to Sudan. Still, only medical assistance has reached Khartoum, the main theatre of military operations.
(ST)