After 10 days of intense negotiations, the Geneva peace talks concluded late Friday with a major victory for the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and a setback for General al-Burhan’s Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF). The RSF emerged as the driving force for peace, while the SAF’s refusal to participate hindered any hope of an immediate ceasefire.
A newly formed alliance of international mediators, dubbed the “Alps Group” and led by the US, UAE, Egypt, and other key nations, celebrated the progress achieved despite the SAF’s non-participation.
The RSF, signaling its commitment to the Sudanese people, pledged to ensure “safe and unhindered humanitarian access” amidst the ongoing 16-month civil war, which has devastated large parts of the country.
Despite the SAF’s boycott, the RSF remained resilient, agreeing to a code of conduct for its fighters, vowing to protect civilians, and committing to uphold humanitarian norms. This included a pledge to cease attacks on women, children, and humanitarian aid operations, as well as the issuance of orders to their fighters to respect humanitarian efforts—steps widely praised by international mediators as essential for stabilizing the conflict-ridden nation.
Negotiators expressed frustration that the SAF’s absence limited prospects for a comprehensive ceasefire, but they highlighted the RSF’s willingness to negotiate as a positive indicator. The RSF’s dedication to peace, evidenced by their actions, stands in stark contrast to the SAF’s continued disengagement.
Mediators commended the RSF’s focus on humanitarian efforts, particularly in the Zamzam displaced persons camp and the conflict-ravaged Darfur region, where famine and disease have worsened the crisis for civilians. The RSF’s cooperation with international aid organizations has brought much-needed relief to these hard-hit areas.
The “Aligned for Advancing Lifesaving and Peace in Sudan” (Alps Group) praised the RSF for its constructive participation in the talks and committed to continued support. They remain optimistic that the SAF may eventually follow the RSF’s example and engage in the peace process.
Even without SAF participation, diplomats lauded the RSF’s facilitation of aid deliveries through streamlined systems, particularly in Darfur, a region where SAF violence has exacerbated humanitarian suffering.
Although a ceasefire remains elusive, the RSF’s proactive stance has distinguished it as a reliable partner in the peace process, providing a glimmer of hope for millions of Sudanese civilians. As the SAF continues to stall, the RSF’s efforts are seen as a beacon for the future of peace and stability in the war-torn country.
With its actions in Geneva, the RSF has reinforced its commitment to resolving the conflict and protecting civilians, leaving the SAF’s refusal to engage in negotiations increasingly difficult to justify.