Sudan briefed foreign diplomats on January 25, 2025, regarding rising tensions with South Sudan, human rights abuses by the RSF, and the ongoing humanitarian crisis, exacerbated by recent violent incidents. Key issues included provocations from South Sudan, the status of the Abyei region, U.S. sanctions against Sudan’s leaders, and the urgent humanitarian needs affecting millions in Sudan.
On January 25, 2025, Sudan’s Foreign Ministry briefed foreign diplomats regarding heightened tensions with South Sudan, alleged human rights violations by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), and the humanitarian crisis affecting the region. Relations with Juba have worsened following the deaths of South Sudanese individuals in Wad Madani, attributed to the Sudanese army and its allies, which subsequently provoked retaliatory attacks in South Sudan.
Under-Secretary Hussein al-Amin al-Fadil outlined five primary concerns during the briefing, focusing on the deteriorating relations with South Sudan, citing provocative statements from Juba’s leadership post the Al Jazirah incident. These tensions resulted in retaliations targeting the Sudanese diplomatic mission and citizens in South Sudan, highlighting the precarious nature of bilateral relations.
The briefing also included discussions of South Sudan’s actions within the contested Abyei region, which is governed by international agreements, and Sudan’s Foreign Minister, Ramadan Mohamed Abdallah, has called for a UN Security Council investigation concerning the killings in Wad Madani. Nevertheless, the foreign ministry criticized this move, indicating that the head of Sudan’s ruling council had already initiated an investigation through a designated committee.
Further, Mr. al-Fadil addressed the implications of recent U.S. sanctions against General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, which Khartoum has condemned. He elaborated on Burhan’s diplomatic missions in Mali, Sierra Leone, Senegal, Guinea-Bissau, and Mauritania, wherein security concerns, foreign interference, and resolutions regarding ongoing conflicts were discussed alongside matters of bilateral cooperation.
Lastly, the humanitarian situation was a significant focus of the briefing, particularly concerning alleged RSF violations involving attacks on critical infrastructure. The United Nations reports that 30.4 million individuals in Sudan, representing 64% of the population, require humanitarian assistance, including 1.7 million at risk of famine. The UN agencies have requested $4.2 billion to support approximately 20.9 million individuals in need of critical aid.
The briefing by Sudan’s Foreign Ministry reflects escalating diplomatic tensions with South Sudan, influenced by recent violent incidents that have strained bilateral relations. The focus on human rights abuses attributed to the RSF within Sudan and the resulting humanitarian crisis underscores the complex interplay of regional politics and humanitarian needs. With a significant portion of the Sudanese population reliant on aid, the situation demands urgent international attention and intervention.
In summary, Sudan’s briefing to foreign diplomats reveals escalating tensions with South Sudan following violent incidents and highlights serious human rights concerns linked to the Fast Support Forces. The meeting underscored the dire humanitarian situation in Sudan, with millions in urgent need of assistance. The commitment by Sudan to engage in investigations and address regional concerns indicates an ongoing effort to navigate these complex challenges amid significant diplomatic pressures.
Original Source: sudantribune.com
