UN Urges Immediate Halt to Arms Transfers Amid Sudan’s Escalating Conflict

The United Nations has called for an immediate cessation of arms supplies to the warring factions in Sudan, warning that such support is fueling the ongoing violence and devastating civilians. The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have both intensified their military campaigns, largely fueled by significant external assistance, including a steady flow of weaponry.

Rosemary DiCarlo, the UN's Undersecretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, stressed that certain international actors are contributing to the crisis by enabling further bloodshed. She condemned this support as both immoral and illegal, urging it to cease immediately. 

Sudan has been embroiled in civil war since April 15, 2023, following a power struggle between Mohamed Hamdan “Hemedti” Dagalo, leader of the RSF, and Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, head of the SAF. The UN estimates that over 24,000 people have died in the conflict, with more than 11 million displaced, including nearly three million seeking refuge in neighboring countries, creating one of the worst displacement crises in the world.

Both warring factions, particularly the RSF, have been accused of committing war crimes, including massacres and ethnic cleansing, which they deny. The RSF, in particular, blames rogue factions for these attacks. DiCarlo emphasized the need for negotiations, but noted that the continued military backing received by both sides is encouraging their belief that a military victory is still possible.

Allegations of foreign involvement in the conflict have surfaced, with Sudanese authorities accusing the United Arab Emirates of arming the RSF, a claim that the UAE denies. The RSF is also reportedly supported by the Russian Wagner Group. Meanwhile, Sudan's army chief, al-Burhan, has strong ties to Egypt, and there are rumors that Iran may be preparing to send drones to Sudanese government forces, although no official arms shipments have been reported.

The UN Security Council is currently deliberating on a resolution proposed by the UK, which calls for an immediate ceasefire between the warring parties and demands that they allow unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid. With food shortages affecting over half of Sudan's population of 50 million, the resolution also stresses the importance of maintaining access to critical aid routes, such as the Adre border crossing with Chad, which is set to expire in mid-November.