The United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has renewed his call for an immediate ceasefire in Sudan, stressing that the continued violence is worsening an already catastrophic humanitarian crisis. Speaking ahead of ongoing diplomatic negotiations, Guterres warned that the conflict has pushed millions to the brink of starvation and displaced countless families, creating one of the world’s most severe emergencies.
Conflict dragging on
Sudan has been engulfed in conflict since April 2023, when tensions between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces escalated into a full-scale war. Despite several rounds of attempted peace talks, none have resulted in lasting stability on the ground. Civilians continue to suffer the most damage, with homes destroyed, services interrupted, and basic necessities becoming increasingly inaccessible.
According to UN estimates, over 25 million people—more than half of Sudan’s population—now require humanitarian assistance. Food insecurity has intensified, particularly in regions where fighting has disrupted supply chains. Aid agencies report that access to areas in need remains dangerously limited due to heavy clashes and bureaucratic obstructions.
Appeal to global powers
Guterres emphasised that the international community has a responsibility to push for an end to the violence. He urged influential regional and global powers to exert pressure on both sides to return to negotiations and allow humanitarian operations to function unhindered.
The UN chief also highlighted the risk of the conflict spilling over into neighbouring countries, further destabilising the region. Sudan borders seven countries, many of which face their own internal challenges, making regional peace increasingly fragile.
Human cost rises
Reports from humanitarian organisations on the ground paint a grim picture: hospitals are overwhelmed, healthcare systems are collapsing, and displacement camps are suffering from disease outbreaks due to overcrowding and lack of sanitation. Witness accounts describe families going days without food, with many forced to flee on foot.
Children, in particular, face severe danger. Aid workers warn that rising malnutrition could have long-term effects on an entire generation if relief operations are not scaled up urgently.
A call for humanitarian corridors
Guterres reiterated the need for guaranteed humanitarian corridors to ensure the safe movement of aid workers and essential supplies. He stressed that without this, the death toll will rise significantly in the coming weeks.
The UN remains committed to working with partners, he said, but the absence of political will among the warring parties continues to hinder progress.
Looking ahead
Diplomatic discussions are expected to continue in the coming days, though expectations remain cautious. While several nations have pledged support for mediation efforts, analysts note that the complexity of local power networks and external involvement makes the path to peace uncertain.
Guterres concluded his remarks with a direct appeal: “The people of Sudan cannot wait any longer. The world cannot look away. A ceasefire is not optional—it is urgent.”