WASHINGTON/RIYADH/CAIRO — The United States, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Egypt have jointly called for a three-month humanitarian truce in Sudan, followed by a permanent ceasefire, in an effort to end the country’s devastating conflict.
Quad Nations Push for Peace
In a joint statement released Friday, the four nations — often referred to as the “Quad on Sudan” — outlined a roadmap to peace, urging Sudan’s warring factions to halt fighting and embrace a nine-month transition process toward a civilian-led government.
“There is no viable military solution to the conflict, and the status quo creates unacceptable suffering and risks to peace and security,” the foreign ministers said.
The statement is aimed at both the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the rival Rapid Support Forces (RSF), whose war has fueled what the United Nations describes as the world’s worst humanitarian crisis, displacing millions and triggering widespread famine.
Divisions Among Regional Players
The conflict is complicated by outside influence. The Sudanese army accuses the UAE of backing the RSF, allegations echoed by some U.S. lawmakers but strongly denied by Abu Dhabi. Meanwhile, Egypt — and to a lesser degree Saudi Arabia — has historically supported the army.
Despite these tensions, the Quad emphasized its support for the unity of Sudan, warning against the RSF’s attempts to establish a parallel government. The RSF already controls much of Darfur and is laying siege to al-Fashir, the region’s historic capital, worsening hunger and civilian suffering.
Obstacles to a Ceasefire
It remains uncertain whether Sudan’s factions will comply. Earlier this year, the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres appealed for a ceasefire in al-Fashir. While the army agreed, the RSF rejected the call.
Rejecting Islamist Influence
The Quad also rejected any future role for the Muslim Brotherhood or affiliated groups in Sudan, referencing the Islamist factions that ruled the country for three decades until 2019 and are now resurfacing in support of the army.
In line with this stance, the U.S. Treasury Department imposed new sanctions on Sudan’s Finance Minister Jibril Ibrahim, a leading Islamist figure, and the Baraa Ibn-Malik Brigade, a militia aligned with the army. Washington said the measures aim to curb Islamist influence in Sudan and counter Iran’s regional activities.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
With the war showing no signs of resolution, Sudan’s civilian population continues to face mass displacement, hunger, and collapsing healthcare services. The Quad’s roadmap reflects mounting international urgency to prevent further destabilization in Africa and the Middle East.
