The Sudanese government issued a warning on Thursday against any cooperation or coordination regarding humanitarian aid with the parallel government loyal to the Rapid Support Forces. This statement was made during the Sudanese Foreign Ministry's summons of the UN Resident Coordinator for Humanitarian Affairs, Denise Brown, along with representatives of UN agencies accredited in Sudan.
Khartoum emphasized that any collaboration with this parallel government constitutes a violation of the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity, especially as military confrontations continue between the Sudanese army and the 'Foundation' alliance forces in South Kordofan.
Details of the Event
In a press statement, the Sudanese Foreign Ministry clarified that it informed UN officials of its rejection of the decision issued by the National Humanitarian Access Authority, which is affiliated with the 'Foundation' alliance. This decision requires foreign and national organizations to register with the authority and obtain accreditation certificates within thirty days, allowing them to operate in areas controlled by the Rapid Support Forces.
The National Authority had issued this decision in early April, urging humanitarian organizations to complete registration procedures within the specified timeframe. It also demanded that UN agencies reopen their offices in areas controlled by the parallel government within 45 days, warning of potential actions that could lead to the cancellation of entry permits if compliance is not met.
Background & Context
The Sudanese government views any agreements or memorandums of understanding made with this authority as support for parallel entities to legitimate state institutions, which constitutes a clear breach of Sudan's sovereignty. The UN Security Council warned in August against the establishment of any parallel authorities or structures in Sudan, indicating that any unilateral steps in this regard pose a threat to Sudan's unity and territorial integrity.
At the same time, the Sudanese government affirmed that it would not tolerate any actions that undermine the unity of the country or the legitimacy of its national institutions, while expressing its commitment to cooperate with UN agencies and humanitarian organizations to deliver aid to all those in need across Sudan.
Impact & Consequences
These warnings coincide with renewed violent clashes between the Sudanese army and the 'Foundation' alliance forces in the Takoma area, near Delang, where government forces repelled an attack by the Rapid Support Forces and their ally, the Sudan People's Liberation Movement. In his statements, Rapid Support Forces leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo 'Hemedti' confirmed that his forces are prepared to fight for decades against the Sudanese army.
The Sudanese government also accused Ethiopia of involvement in drone strikes on several Sudanese states, further complicating the security situation in the country. Addis Ababa has denied any involvement in these strikes, reflecting the regional tensions surrounding the Sudanese conflict.
Regional Significance
These developments in Sudan are part of a broader landscape of tensions in the region, where political and security crises intersect in several Arab countries. The ongoing conflict in Sudan could affect regional stability and increase the flow of refugees to neighboring countries, posing an additional challenge to regional security.
In conclusion, the situation in Sudan remains complex, with current challenges requiring a comprehensive international response to ensure the country's stability and prevent the exacerbation of humanitarian crises.