Sudan’s military leader, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, rejected a ceasefire proposal from US-led mediators, calling it “the worst yet,” in a setback for efforts to end the country’s 30-month-long war. In a video statement released Sunday, al-Burhan accused the mediators; comprising the United States, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates, known collectively as the Quad—of bias. “This plan eliminates the armed forces, dissolves security agencies, and keeps the militia in place,” he said. “It is very bad and we don’t accept it.”
Al-Burhan specifically criticised US adviser for African affairs Massad Boulos, claiming he sought to “impose conditions” on the Sudanese army and could obstruct peace. He also targeted the UAE, accusing it of supporting the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), allegations the Gulf nation denies. The Quad has been mediating since the military coup of 2021, aiming to end hostilities and restore a democratic transition. This month, US President Donald Trump pledged to increase efforts to resolve the conflict after Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman urged him to intervene.
Meanwhile, the United Nations renewed calls for a ceasefire. Secretary-General António Guterres urged both the Sudanese army and RSF to negotiate immediately. “We need peace in Sudan. We need an immediate cessation of hostilities,” he said on X. The fighting, concentrated between the Sudanese army and RSF, has caused widespread civilian displacement, with tens of thousands fleeing cities like El Fasher in North Darfur. Human rights organizations continue to report atrocities, including indiscriminate shelling and looting of civilian areas.
