Sudan’s Chief of Army, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, engaged in talks with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi in Cairo on Thursday amid an ongoing year-long conflict with his former deputy-turned-rival RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo.
The meeting, highlighted by joint discussions and efforts to enhance bilateral relations, took place as the two leaders aim to de-escalate the situation in Sudan, where al-Burhan governs from Port Sudan in the east, while RSF leader controls significant regions, including Khartoum and Darfur.
In a symbolic display, President Sisi warmly welcomed al-Burhan, Sudan’s de facto leader since a 2021 coup, at the Cairo airport. The talks focused on the urgent need to ease tensions in Sudan, where the conflict has resulted in substantial casualties, economic devastation, infrastructure destruction, and the displacement of over eight million people.
Cairo was initially a key ally for al-Burhan in his battle against the RSF However, recent developments suggest a shift in dynamics, with Dagalo gaining diplomatic ground and making significant territorial advances. This has prompted Egypt to distance itself from al-Burhan, while the Sudanese government, aligned with the army, has strengthened ties with Iran.
Concerns have been raised internationally about potential support from Iran to the Sudanese army, as the conflict intensifies. Western nations and aid organizations warn against exacerbating the situation, accusing the United Arab Emirates of supplying arms to the paramilitary forces. Both sides face allegations of atrocities, including shelling civilian areas, torture, and obstructing humanitarian aid, adding to the complexity of the already dire situation in Sudan.