Efforts to launch a diplomatic push for peace in Sudan hit a major setback on Tuesday after Arab states refused to sign a joint communique at a British-hosted conference in London.
The failed attempt to establish an international contact group for ceasefire talks reflects deep divisions among key players, particularly Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The day-long meeting was marred by disagreement over the wording of the final statement.
Meanwhile, the situation on the ground in Sudan worsened as Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, leader of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), announced the formation of a rival “Government of Peace and Unity,” challenging the army-backed administration.
The war, which began in April 2023 between the RSF and the Sudanese army, has displaced 13 million people and claimed tens of thousands of lives. Recent RSF attacks on Darfur refugee camps have heightened fears of renewed genocide in the region.
Despite the lack of consensus, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, along with officials from the EU, France, Germany, and the African Union, issued a co-chairs’ statement pledging continued support for peace efforts and opposing external interference.
Lammy also announced £120 million in UK aid, with Germany committing an additional €125 million.
However, the absence of Sudanese actors and civilian voices at the conference drew criticism, as did the UAE’s presence amid accusations of arming the RSF allegations it denies.
Human rights groups urged stronger action, warning the world must not “sleepwalk into another genocide.”
With no clear path forward and the warring factions entrenched, fears are growing that Sudan may slide toward a de facto partition, while aid cuts and political deadlock threaten to deepen the humanitarian crisis.
