Mon Nov 18 05:14:25 UTC 2024: ## UN Security Council to Vote on Sudan Ceasefire Resolution

**New York, November 18, 2024** – The UN Security Council will vote today on a draft resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire in Sudan, where a brutal conflict between rival generals continues to rage. The resolution, spearheaded by Britain and Sierra Leone, urges both the Sudanese army, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), commanded by General Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, to immediately cease hostilities and engage in good-faith dialogue to de-escalate the conflict.

The ongoing war, which began in April 2023, has caused a devastating humanitarian crisis. The UN estimates that tens of thousands have been killed and over 11 million displaced, including 3.1 million who have fled the country. Recent weeks have seen a resurgence in violence, with neither side showing signs of backing down. The conflict has led to severe food shortages affecting approximately 26 million people, and both sides have been accused of committing sexual violence.

The draft resolution calls for the full implementation of 2023 commitments to protect civilians, halt conflict-related sexual violence, and ensure unimpeded humanitarian access. British Foreign Secretary David Lammy, who will preside over the Security Council session, has pledged to push for a resolution that prioritizes civilian protection and aid delivery.

While many diplomats express confidence in the resolution’s passage, Russia’s stance remains uncertain. Concerns have been raised about Russia’s apparent shift towards supporting General Burhan’s forces during negotiations. The resolution also calls on member states to avoid external interference that fuels the conflict and urges respect for the arms embargo on Darfur. Sudan has accused the UAE of supplying arms to the RSF, a claim denied by Abu Dhabi.

The effectiveness of the resolution remains questionable, given the limited impact of previous Security Council calls for ceasefires. Nevertheless, the draft proposes that UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres consider a system for monitoring and verifying any future ceasefire. Mr. Guterres has previously suggested this, but noted that current conditions are not suitable for deploying a UN peacekeeping force to protect civilians in Sudan.

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