Sudan stands on the brink of a full-scale humanitarian collapse as a supposed 48-hour ceasefire agreement between the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese army shattered within hours of its announcement. Instead of bringing respite, the past days have witnessed some of the most intense urban combat since the conflict began.
A Capital Under Siege
The streets of Khartoum have become a battleground, with residents reporting relentless artillery fire, drone attacks, and heavy gunfire. The independent monitor, the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project (ACLED), confirmed the ceasefire's rapid failure, noting continued violent clashes across multiple neighbourhoods.
"What was promised as a pause for humanitarian aid has turned into a period of intensified terror for civilians," a witness from Omdurman told The Independent. "There is no safe place."
Deepening Humanitarian Catastrophe
The collapse of the truce has dire consequences for a population already pushed to its limits:
- Starvation Looming: The World Food Programme warns that nearly 20 million people—over 40% of Sudan's population—face acute food insecurity.
- Medical System Collapse: Over 70% of hospitals in conflict areas are now non-operational, with many damaged in the fighting.
- Mass Displacement: The UN reports over 1.5 million people have been internally displaced, with a further half-million fleeing to neighbouring countries.
International Response and UK Action
The British government has been actively involved in evacuation efforts and diplomatic pressure. A Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office spokesperson stated: "We are deeply concerned by the continued fighting and the devastating humanitarian impact. We call on all parties to immediately adhere to a ceasefire and allow unhindered humanitarian access."
International mediation efforts, led by regional powers and supported by Western nations including the UK, have so far failed to produce a lasting agreement. Both the Sudanese Armed Forces and the RSF have publicly committed to ceasefires while continuing military operations on the ground.
A Nation's Future in the Balance
Analysts fear the conflict is evolving into a prolonged civil war that could destabilise the entire region. With basic infrastructure failing and essential supplies running critically low, the window to prevent mass starvation and a complete societal breakdown is closing rapidly.
The international community faces mounting pressure to find a diplomatic breakthrough before Sudan descends further into what aid agencies are describing as one of the world's most severe humanitarian emergencies.
