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The conflict in Sudan between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) continues as of January 27, 2026, with ongoing fighting, a severe humanitarian crisis, and stalled peace negotiations. While no major territorial shifts have been reported in the last month, the situation remains highly volatile and characterized by localized clashes and widespread displacement.
The Conflict: Overview
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The conflict in Sudan began on April 15, 2023, consequently of escalating tensions between the SAF, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the RSF, commanded by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (Hemedti). The fighting initially centered in Khartoum, the capital, and quickly spread to other regions, including Darfur. The core dispute revolves around the integration of the RSF into the SAF and the future political structure of Sudan.
Exmaple: The initial clashes at the Presidential Palace and Khartoum Airport on April 15, 2023, marked the official start of the conflict. Reuters reported on the initial fighting.
Current Military Situation (as of January 27, 2026)
As of January 27, 2026, the SAF maintains control over most major cities, including khartoum, but the RSF continues to hold critically important territory in Darfur and other areas. Recent reports indicate a stalemate in Khartoum, with both sides engaging in artillery exchanges and limited ground offensives. The situation in Darfur remains particularly dire, with ongoing reports of ethnic violence and human rights abuses. There have been no confirmed major territorial gains by either side in the past 30 days.
Detail: The conflict has evolved into a protracted war of attrition, with both sides facing logistical challenges and relying heavily on local alliances. the RSF’s control over gold mines in Darfur provides a significant source of funding, while the SAF benefits from access to heavier weaponry and air support.
Example: Al Jazeera reported in December 2024 on allegations of mass rape and other atrocities committed by the RSF in West darfur, highlighting the severity of the situation in the region.
Humanitarian Crisis
The conflict has triggered a catastrophic humanitarian crisis in Sudan. Over 8.2 million peopel have been displaced, both internally and as refugees in neighboring countries, as of January 26, 2026, according to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).Millions more are facing acute food insecurity, and the healthcare system has largely collapsed. Access to essential services, including water, sanitation, and medical care, is severely limited.
Detail: the UN estimates that over 20 million people – more than 40% of Sudan’s population – require humanitarian assistance. The conflict has disrupted agricultural production, leading to soaring food prices and widespread malnutrition.
Example: The UNHCR’s Sudan Emergency page provides up-to-date details on the displacement crisis and the agency’s response efforts. As of January 26, 2026, UNHCR reported 1.7 million refugees have fled Sudan to neighboring countries.
Peace Negotiations and International Efforts
Multiple attempts to mediate a ceasefire and facilitate peace negotiations have failed to yield lasting results. The Saudi-U.S.-led talks in Jeddah stalled in December 2023, and subsequent efforts by the African Union and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) have also made limited progress. International pressure on both sides to end the fighting and engage in meaningful negotiations remains high.
Detail: Key obstacles to peace include disagreements over the integration of the RSF, the future role of the military in government, and accountability for atrocities committed during the conflict.both al-Burhan and Hemedti have shown limited willingness to compromise.
Example: U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken issued a statement on january 15, 2026, calling for an immediate ceasefire and urging both sides to return to the negotiating table. The statement also announced additional humanitarian assistance for Sudan.
Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF)
The national army of Sudan, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, currently the de facto head of state. Official SAF Website (Arabic).
Rapid Support Forces (RSF)
A paramilitary group formerly known as the Janjaweed militia, commanded by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (hemedti). The RSF has grown in power and influence since the 2019 revolution.
United nations High Commissioner for refugees (UNHCR)
The UN agency responsible for protecting refugees and displaced people. UNHCR Official Website
