Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty held talks with Sudanese Foreign Minister Ali Youssef El-Sherif in Cairo on Sunday to discuss the ongoing political and military crisis in Sudan. The meeting followed the controversial formation of a parallel government by Sudan’s paramilitary group, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), and its allies. The RSF, which has been engaged in violent clashes with Sudan’s army since April 2023, signed a charter on Sunday in Nairobi, Kenya, to create a government they claim will promote “peace and unity.”
However, El-Sherif firmly rejected any foreign recognition of this new governance structure, insisting that Sudan’s legitimate government will not acknowledge the RSF-led initiative. “No one will recognize the so-called parallel government,” El-Sherif stated, reinforcing Sudan’s stance against external interference.
The RSF’s signing ceremony has sparked international concern, as it follows a contentious meeting last week that drew condemnation from Sudan’s Foreign Ministry. The RSF’s violent actions throughout the conflict, including allegations of human rights abuses, have added to the growing criticism. Despite claims by the RSF that they aim to stabilize Sudan, human rights organizations and the international community continue to express alarm over the atrocities committed by the group.
The conflict, which has escalated significantly since April 2023, has resulted in devastating consequences. According to the United Nations, over 24,000 people have died, and approximately 14 million people—around 30% of Sudan’s population—have been displaced. Additionally, an estimated 3.2 million Sudanese refugees have fled to neighboring countries, further straining regional resources.
The U.N. reported that more than 4,200 civilian deaths have been documented in 2024 alone, with the true toll likely much higher due to the chaotic nature of the war. Despite the RSF’s territorial gains, Sudan’s military has made notable progress, regaining control of crucial regions such as the capital of Gezira province, Wad Medani, and Sudan’s largest oil refinery.
Abdelatty and El-Sherif also discussed broader regional issues, including the future of Gaza and the anticipated outcomes of the upcoming Arab summit scheduled to take place in Cairo.
As Sudan grapples with its internal divisions and escalating violence, the international community remains deeply concerned about the growing humanitarian crisis and the lack of a clear path to peace.
