United States and Egypt calls for Sudan ceasefire
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Loading... - Leyla Rashidi
- 19 Sep 2024
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The United States and Egypt have jointly called for an immediate ceasefire in Sudan to address the escalating violence and worsening humanitarian crisis. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty emphasized their deep concerns during a press conference in Cairo, particularly regarding the recent offensive by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
Blinken acknowledged Egypt's crucial role in tackling what he described as "the world’s worst humanitarian crisis." He stressed the importance of the RSF upholding its Geneva commitments, which include protecting civilians, and urged the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) to halt indiscriminate bombing. The ongoing violence, particularly in El Fasher, has resulted in rising casualties and displacement, further threatening diplomatic progress.
Blinken also announced plans to convene with international partners at the UN General Assembly to coordinate efforts for expanding humanitarian access in Sudan and pushing for a cessation of hostilities.
Egyptian Foreign Minister Abdelatty underlined the distinction between the SAF, which he described as embodying the unity of the Sudanese state, and the RSF, warning against equating the two. He reiterated the importance of restoring Sudan's sovereignty and the functioning of its institutions.
Egypt has welcomed hundreds of thousands of Sudanese refugees since the conflict began, a gesture for which Blinken praised Egypt, highlighting the strong ties between the U.S. and Egypt amid regional challenges.
