Sudan: UN Secretary-General António Guterres calls for peace, ceasefire

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has urged warring parties in Sudan to follow a three-day ceasefire so that civilians stuck in combat zones can seek medical treatment, food, and other necessities.

His call to silence the gunfire during the Eid al-Fitr celebrations, which mark the end of Ramadan, came after the African Union (AU) called a virtual meeting on the crisis.

The AU summit brought together the United Nations, the League of Arab States, the East African bloc IGAD, the European Union, and countries dedicated to ending the fighting in Sudan, where competing military factions have been fighting for power for nearly a week.

Hundreds have been killed in the clashes between the Sudanese armed forces and the paramilitary group, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), who are at odds over the return to civilian rule.

Humanitarians have also been hampered from carrying out their lifesaving operations, due to attacks and looting.

Mr. Guterres said the cessation of hostilities must be followed by serious dialogue, allowing for the successful transition, starting with the appointment of a civilian government.

He condemned the targeting of humanitarian workers and assets, and reminded the parties of their international obligations, including to ensure the safety and security of aid workers.

Thousands have fled the city, though evacuation has become increasingly difficult. Humanitarians warn that people are running out of food, fuel and other vital supplies, and many urgently need medical care.