The BBC has reported that a ceasefire in Sudan, which began at midnight on Monday, appears to be holding. This is the fourth attempt to stop fighting between the Sudanese military and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary group, after three previous attempts failed. Several thousand people have been injured and at least 400 have died in the conflict, which began on 15 April. Many Khartoum residents have been affected by the fighting, with power cuts, water shortages and food scarcities. Some have been advised to remain indoors.
The RSF and Sudanese military separately announced the 72-hour truce shortly after US Secretary of State Antony Blinken informed the media about the agreement. Several nations, including India, will use this window to evacuate their citizens caught in the conflict.
Bombing has impacted the infrastructure of Khartoum, causing water scarcity and power cuts. Some residents have had to drink directly from the Nile river. Even Sudanese living in Khartoum are now leaving their homes and belongings behind and leaving for Uganda, Egypt and other neighbouring countries. A Sudanese-British citizen who visited their home in Khartoum said that sewers were overflowing and there were concerns about an outbreak of disease.
The Sudanese military and the RSF began fighting initially because RSF chief Dagalo wanted the RSF to be integrated into the Sudan military. Both generals are now vying to take control of the country.
