As Sudan’s catastrophic war reaches its fourth year, the humanitarian crisis spirals further into despair, with emergency levels of hunger gripping millions. At a critical conference in Berlin, British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper called for an end to the bloodshed, but hopes for a meaningful resolution remain dim amid ongoing tensions between regional powers.
A Dire Humanitarian Landscape
The bleak conditions in Sudan are reflected starkly in the latest assessments, which reveal that over 19 million people now face acute hunger. The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) has classified several regions, including North Kordofan and Darfur, as experiencing “emergency” hunger levels, with some communities teetering on the brink of famine. The warning signs are unmistakable; by mid-year, the number of individuals needing humanitarian assistance is expected to rise to between 22 and 23 million.
Despite the overwhelming evidence of suffering, Cooper remains resolute in her belief that peace is attainable. “Today, in Berlin, I will call for the international community to join in a shared resolve: to secure a ceasefire and a diplomatic solution, to stop the suffering, and allow the people of Sudan to determine their own peaceful future,” she stated. However, analysts are sceptical that the summit will yield any substantial progress.
Tensions Among Key Players
The Berlin conference coincides with a significant diplomatic impasse among the so-called Quad nations—comprised of the United States, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. While Egypt and Saudi Arabia have thrown their support behind the Sudanese army, the UAE has emerged as the primary backer of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). As these nations grapple with their competing interests, relations have soured, particularly between Riyadh and Abu Dhabi, following recent clashes in Yemen involving their respective proxy forces.
The anticipated presence of Massad Boulos, a political adviser on Africa for Donald Trump, has sparked faint hopes for a breakthrough, but insiders caution against expecting any major political advancements. “We don’t expect anything major, certainly not on the political level,” noted one source familiar with the discussions.
The Unrelenting Cycle of Violence
With no signs of a ceasefire, the conflict appears poised to escalate further, particularly in the Kordofan region, the epicentre of the ongoing battles. Paul Byars, the Sudan director for the Danish Refugee Council, predicts that the hostilities will not abate, asserting, “Neither side will give up, which means they’ll keep taking and retaking territory.” The increasing use of drones in combat also raises concerns that the traditional lull in fighting during the rainy season may be disrupted.
The United Nations has reported nearly 700 civilian casualties attributed to drone strikes since the beginning of the year, underscoring the brutal nature of the conflict. The situation remains dire, with the international community grappling to respond effectively to one of the world’s most pressing humanitarian crises.
Why it Matters
The ongoing violence in Sudan not only devastates the lives of millions but also poses a significant threat to regional stability and international security. As the conflict continues to escalate and humanitarian needs grow, the failure of diplomatic efforts highlights the urgent need for a unified global response. The people of Sudan deserve an opportunity to reclaim their future from the grips of war, but without decisive action, the cycle of suffering is likely to persist.
