Sudan Conflict: Current Status as of January 27, 2026
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The conflict in Sudan between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) continues to cause a severe humanitarian crisis, with fighting concentrated in Khartoum, Darfur, and Kordofan as of January 27, 2026. Despite numerous ceasefire attempts, a lasting resolution remains elusive, and the situation has deteriorated substantially since the outbreak of hostilities in April 2023.
The Core Conflict: SAF vs. RSF
The conflict is a direct result of a power struggle between General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the commander of the SAF, and General Mohamed hamdan Dagalo (Hemedti), the leader of the RSF. The dispute centers on the integration of the RSF into the SAF, a key component of a planned transition to civilian rule.
the fighting began on April 15, 2023, after weeks of escalating tensions. Both sides accuse the other of initiating the violence. The conflict quickly spread from Khartoum to other regions, particularly Darfur, where pre-existing ethnic tensions have been exacerbated.
Example: On January 18,2026,the SAF launched a major offensive in North Darfur,targeting RSF positions near El Fasher,the regional capital. reuters reported on the escalating violence and civilian casualties.
Humanitarian Crisis and Displacement
The conflict has triggered a catastrophic humanitarian crisis, with millions of Sudanese displaced both internally and as refugees in neighboring countries. Access to essential services, including healthcare, food, and water, is severely limited.
As of January 26, 2026, the United Nations estimates that over 8.2 million people have been displaced within Sudan, and over 1.7 million have fled to neighboring countries like Chad, South Sudan, and Egypt. UNHCR reports that the number of refugees continues to rise daily.
Example: The World Food Program (WFP) reported on January 20, 2026 that over 18 million people – more than 38 percent of Sudan’s population – are facing acute hunger.
International Mediation Efforts
Numerous international actors have attempted to mediate a ceasefire and facilitate a political solution to the conflict,but these efforts have largely been unsuccessful.
The African Union (AU), the Intergovernmental authority on Development (IGAD), the united Nations, and the United States have all been involved in mediation efforts. However, both the SAF and the RSF have repeatedly violated ceasefire agreements. The Jeddah talks, brokered by Saudi Arabia and the United States, stalled in December 2023 and have not resumed in a meaningful way.
Example: On January 25, 2026, the U.S.State Department issued a statement expressing deep concern over the escalating violence and calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities. The statement also announced additional humanitarian assistance for Sudan.
Regional Implications
The conflict in Sudan has significant regional implications, threatening to destabilize the wider Horn of africa. The influx of refugees is straining the resources of neighboring countries, and the conflict is exacerbating existing tensions.
There are concerns that the conflict could spill over into neighboring countries, particularly South Sudan, which is already grappling with its own internal challenges. The proliferation of weapons and the involvement of foreign actors also pose a threat to regional security.
example: A report by the International Crisis Group, published January 15, 2026, warned that the conflict could escalate into a proxy war involving regional powers vying for control of the Red Sea.
Current Status (January 27, 2026)
As of January 27, 2026, fighting continues intensely in Khartoum and Darfur. ceasefire negotiations remain stalled, and the humanitarian situation is deteriorating rapidly. There are no indications of an imminent resolution to the conflict. The SAF maintains control of most government institutions and major cities, while the RSF controls significant portions of Darfur and Khartoum. The civilian population remains the most vulnerable, facing widespread violence, displacement, and starvation.
