As the violence in Sudan escalates, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has expressed the deep concern shared by allies at the G7 Foreign Ministers meeting in Japan.
With the situation in Sudan becoming increasingly precarious, Blinken and other international leaders are urging for an immediate ceasefire and a return to talks in order to protect civilians and stabilize the region.
Sudan’s growing crisis: The world watches
Fighting erupted in Sudan on Saturday between army units and a rival paramilitary force, leaving at least 97 civilians dead. As the conflict continued, the army appeared to gain the upper hand on Sunday.
Blinken, speaking on the sidelines of the G7 meeting, noted that close consultations have been held on the issue, involving partners in the Arab world, Africa, and international organizations.
Blinken emphasized the collective concern about the potential impact of the violence on civilians, the nation of Sudan, and the wider region.
He stated that there was a strongly shared view among allies that steps must be taken to protect civilians, non-combatants, and people from third countries.
Furthermore, Blinken urged for an immediate ceasefire and a return to talks, which had shown promise in putting Sudan on the path to a full transition to a civilian-led government.
International calls for peace and stability
British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly echoed Blinken’s sentiments, calling on the generals involved in the conflict to prioritize peace and return to negotiations.
In a joint statement, Britain and the United States called for an “immediate cessation” of violence in Sudan, highlighting the threats posed to civilians and the potential destabilizing effects on the region.
Blinken mentioned that discussions about the fighting in Sudan have been held with allies in the Middle East and Africa, resulting in a “very strong shared view” about the need for generals to ensure the protection of civilians, non-combatants, and people from third countries.
There was a mutual agreement on the need for an immediate ceasefire and a return to talks, he added, speaking from the sidelines of the G7 foreign ministers’ meeting in Karuizawa, Japan.
As the situation in Sudan continues to deteriorate, the international community is watching closely, with the U.S. and its allies urging for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
It remains to be seen whether the calls for an immediate ceasefire and a return to talks will be heeded by the parties involved, but the urgency of the matter is clear.
The world is looking to Sudan’s leaders to make the right decision for the sake of their nation and the stability of the region.
