On Saturday, a war broke out in Sudan’s capital city of Khartoum between the paramilitary Rapid Support and the Sudan National Army. The tensions leading up to the conflict had been building for three weeks prior. These two powerful generals had previously attempted to stage a coup against the former prime minister, who led the traditional government as a head of the civilians in October 2021. Despite this, they had been running the country together through the Sovereign Council and proposed to move towards a civilian-led government.

In response to the crisis, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) held an emergency meeting on Sunday. The group called for an immediate cessation of hostilities between the warring parties. IGAD has delegated three presidents, including Kenya’s Ruto, South Sudan’s Salva Kiir, and Djibouti’s Ismail Omar Guelleh, to mediate the Sudanese leaders. The group released a statement on their official Facebook account urging the warring factions to allow for humanitarian assistance, citing the importance of stability in Sudan for the social and economic stability of the region.

The death toll from the conflict has reportedly risen to over 1,000 people, with more than 180 people killed. Residents are staying in their homes and attempting to ride out the violence. Despite the ongoing fighting, United Nations envoy on Sudan, Mr. Volcker Perthes, states that the two sides are not willing to show leadership and accept negotiations.

The US Ambassador to Sudan, John Goodfrey, reports that he and his embassy team are sheltering in place due to the disturbing sounds of gunfire and fighting. The Russian Embassy has also expressed concern about the escalation of violence and urged both sides to seek peace.