Jeddah, Saudi Arabia – Sudan’s military junta has thrown a wrench into the ongoing efforts to broker peace in the war-torn country, rejecting the involvement of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the upcoming Geneva talks.
The move, announced following preparatory talks hosted by the US in Jeddah, marks a significant escalation of tensions between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The SAF has accused the UAE of arming the RSF, a claim the UAE vehemently denies.
Sudan’s Minister for Minerals, Mohamed Bashir Abu Namu, who led the delegation, cited disagreements over the delegation’s representation as the primary reason for the breakdown in talks. The SAF insists on being recognized as the sole representative of Sudan, a demand rejected by the RSF.
The decision to exclude IGAD and the UAE has further complicated the peace process, as both entities were seen as potential mediators. The African Union and the United Nations are still expected to participate as observers in the Geneva talks.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan has caused a humanitarian catastrophe, with thousands killed and millions displaced. The RSF and the SAF have been accused of war crimes and crimes against humanity.
The US, which has been leading the diplomatic efforts, has expressed disappointment over the latest developments but remains committed to finding a peaceful solution.
