The United States (US) has welcomed the resolutions made by the Intergovernmental Authority for Development (IGAD) towards ending conflict in Sudan.
The resolutions made, including calling for a ceasefire and the removal of William Ruto as the chair of the group of countries that were working to end the conflict, were lauded by the US in a statement by the Department of State spokesperson Mathew Miller.
Further, the US called on the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) to abide by the commitments made by IGAD and end the conflict once and for all.
“We join IGAD in reiterating to the belligerent parties that there is no acceptable military solution to the conflict in Sudan.
“We strongly endorse the condemnation by IGAD of support to the warring parties, which only serves to fuel the conflict,” the statement read in part.
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US Raises Alarm Over the Effect of the War
At the same time, the Department of State raised concerns over the effect of the conflict including conflict related sexual violence against women and children.
Subsequently, US offered to partner with relevant parties to facilitate dialogue and address the concerns.
“The United States is committed to coordinating closely with IGAD, the AU, and other partners in facilitating an inclusive Sudanese-owned and led civilian dialogue to address transitional and governance issues and resume Sudan’s democratic transition.
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“The United States is proud of our steadfast partnership and support for the efforts of IGAD and the African Union’s efforts to resolve the Sudan crisis,” added the statement.
Resolutions Made by IGAD Over the Conflict
The resolutions were made during the 41st Extraordinary Assembly of the IGAD Heads of State and Government held on Saturday, December 9, 2023, in Djibouti.
Additionally, IGAD asked the warring parties to cease hostilities immediately and allow humanitarian access and the protection of civilians.
“Alarmed by the unprecedented toll the ongoing conflict is having on the lives and well-being of civilians particularly Women and Children as well as on the security and humanitarian situation in the Republic of the Sudan and the region at large,
“Reiterated its call to the parties to the conflict to immediately and unconditionally cease hostilities and allow unimpeded humanitarian access and protection of civilians in the affected areas and communities,” noted the report.