Michelle Gavin, a senior fellow at CFR, discusses Sudan's ongoing civil war, including the power struggles, devastating impact on cities, challenges in estimating death toll, lack of humanitarian access, and urgent need for global intervention to prevent a humanitarian catastrophe.
Sudan's civil war involves power struggles between military and civilians, leading to a deadly humanitarian crisis.
External actors like Russia and Iran influence Sudan's conflict, posing regional risks in neighboring countries.
Deep dives
Sudan's Conflict Origins and Power Struggle
Sudan's civil war began with a popular uprising in 2019, leading to the military ousting President Bashir. A transitional arrangement between the military and civilians aimed for democratic elections. However, power-sharing issues arose, resulting in a coup. The conflict evolved into a struggle between the Sudanese armed forces and the rapid support forces.
Current Fighting Situation and Humanitarian Crisis
The Sudanese armed forces dominate the east, particularly in Port Sudan, while the rapid support forces control Darfur in the west. Continuous conflict and lack of access have led to widespread destruction in cities like Khartoum and Abderon. The death toll estimates vary widely, with over 10 million Sudanese displaced and looming famine threats.
International Involvement and Geopolitical Significance
External actors like Russia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE have influenced the conflict by supporting different factions. Sudan's geopolitical importance stems from its size, population, and strategic location on the Red Sea. The instability in Sudan poses regional risks, with neighboring countries like Libya, Ethiopia, and Chad deeply involved or impacted by the conflict.
Michelle Gavin, the Ralph Bunche senior fellow for Africa policy studies at CFR, sits down with James M. Lindsay to discuss the ongoing deadly conflict and humanitarian crisis in Sudan.