On Thursday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres asked for a ceasefire in Sudan over Eid al-Fitr, which marks the conclusion of the fasting month of Ramadan, to last “at least three days.”
“We are living a very important moment in the Muslim calendar. I think this is the right moment for a ceasefire to hold,” Guterres told reporters, adding: “We have been in contact with the parties, we believe it is possible.”
According to Guterres, the break would “enable civilians trapped in conflict zones to escape and to seek medical care, food, and other essential supplies.”
Since combat broke out Saturday between soldiers loyal to Sudan’s army leader Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his deputy, Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, who is in charge of the paramilitary Rapid Support soldiers (RSF), more than 300 people have died.
The Eid ceasefire “must be the first step in providing respite from the fighting and paving the way for a permanent ceasefire,” Guterres said. “This ceasefire is absolutely crucial at the present moment,” he added.
Five million people live in Khartoum, the capital city, where some of the bloodiest fights have occurred. The majority of these residents have been confined to their houses without access to food, water, or electricity.
“The cessation of hostilities must be followed by serious dialogue allowing for the successful transition, starting with the appointment of a civilian government,” Guterres said.
