A
What happened
The conflict in Sudan began with a military coup in 2021, leading to a violent struggle between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (R.S.F.). By April 2023, this conflict escalated into an all-out war, resulting in a humanitarian catastrophe with a death toll potentially exceeding 400,000 and over ten million people displaced. The SAF, backed by Egypt, controls much of northern Sudan, while the R.S.F., accused of genocide, is supported by the U.A.E. The war has transformed into a complex struggle involving ethnic divisions and regional power dynamics, as foreign nations vie for influence in the region. The U.A.E.'s backing of the R.S.F. is driven by its interests in the Red Sea and Sudan's resources, while Egypt's support for the SAF is rooted in its security concerns. The conflict reflects deeper ideological struggles and has reshaped alliances across the region.
★
Key insights
-
1
Humanitarian Crisis
The conflict has led to hundreds of thousands of deaths and millions displaced.
-
2
Regional Power Dynamics
The war has drawn in foreign powers, complicating Sudan's internal conflict.
-
3
Ethnic Struggles
Leaders have ethnicized the conflict to garner support from various groups.
-
4
Proxy War Elements
The conflict has characteristics of a proxy war due to foreign interventions.
Takeaways
The ongoing conflict in Sudan is a complex interplay of domestic power struggles and foreign interests, resulting in a severe humanitarian crisis. The situation remains fluid, with potential for further escalation as regional dynamics evolve.