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Sudan conflict: Ongoing Crisis as of January 31, 2026
Table of Contents
The conflict in Sudan between the Sudanese Armed forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) continues to escalate, marked by widespread violence, a severe humanitarian crisis, and stalled peace negotiations as of January 31, 2026. Fighting remains concentrated in Khartoum, Darfur, and Kordofan, with meaningful impacts on civilian populations.
The Core Conflict: SAF vs. RSF
The conflict began on April 15, 2023, consequently 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 stemmed from disagreements over the integration of the RSF into the SAF as part of a planned transition to civilian rule.
the initial clashes in Khartoum quickly spread to other regions, notably Darfur, where pre-existing ethnic tensions have exacerbated the violence. Both sides have been accused of war crimes and human rights abuses.
Example: In December 2025, the International Criminal Court (ICC) announced it was expanding its investigation into alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity committed in Darfur since the outbreak of the conflict. ICC Statement
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. As of January 26, 2026, the United Nations estimates that over 8.2 million people have been displaced.
Access to essential services, including healthcare, food, and water, is severely limited in conflict zones.The UN warns of a looming famine, particularly in Darfur, where the fighting has disrupted agricultural production and humanitarian aid delivery.
Example: The World Food Program (WFP) reported in January 2026 that over 18 million people in Sudan are facing acute food insecurity. WFP Sudan Country Page
International Response and Peace Efforts
International efforts to mediate a ceasefire and facilitate a political solution have so far failed to yield significant results. The African Union (AU), the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), and the United Nations have all been involved in mediation attempts.
The United States and Saudi Arabia jointly brokered a ceasefire agreement in Jeddah in may 2023, but it was repeatedly violated by both sides. Sanctions have been imposed on individuals and entities linked to the conflict, but their effectiveness has been limited.
Example: The U.S. Department of the Treasury imposed sanctions on several RSF leaders in December 2025, citing their involvement in human rights abuses and obstruction of peace efforts. U.S. Treasury Press release
Key Actors and Organizations
Several key actors and organizations are involved in the Sudan conflict:
- Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF): The national army of Sudan, led by General Abdel fattah al-Burhan.
- Rapid support Forces (RSF): A paramilitary group led by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (Hemedti).
- African Union (AU): Leading regional mediation efforts. AU Peace and Security
- Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD): Another key regional mediator. IGAD Website
- United Nations (UN): Providing humanitarian assistance and supporting peace efforts. UN Sudan Page
- International Criminal Court (ICC): Investigating alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity. ICC Website
Current Situation (January 31,2026)
As of January 31,2026,intense fighting continues in Khartoum,with the RSF making gains in some areas. The situation in Darfur remains particularly dire, with reports of widespread atrocities and a complete breakdown of law and order. Negotiations between the SAF and RSF remain stalled, with no immediate prospect of a ceasefire or political
