Sudan Conflict: Ongoing Crisis and Recent Developments
Table of Contents
The conflict in Sudan between the Sudanese Armed forces (SAF) and the Rapid support Forces (RSF) continues to escalate, causing a severe humanitarian crisis. As of January 20, 2026, fighting remains concentrated in Khartoum, Darfur, and Kordofan, with no immediate end in sight despite international mediation efforts. The situation is characterized by widespread displacement, food insecurity, and reports of atrocities.
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, particularly Darfur, where existing ethnic tensions have been exacerbated by the fighting. Both sides have been accused of violating international humanitarian law.
Example: On December 12, 2023, Amnesty International documented widespread sexual violence committed by RSF and SAF forces against women and girls in Darfur.
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 15, 2026, the United Nations reports that over 8.2 million people have been displaced within Sudan,and over 1.7 million have fled to countries like Chad, South Sudan, and Egypt. UNHCR Sudan emergency
Access to food, water, and medical care is severely limited, particularly in conflict zones. The World Food program (WFP) estimates that over 20 million people – more then 40% of the population – face acute food insecurity. WFP Sudan
Example: A report released by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) on January 8, 2026, indicated that 18.2 million people are facing high levels of acute food insecurity (IPC Phase 3 or above) between January and March 2026.
International Response and Mediation Efforts
Numerous international actors have been involved in efforts to mediate a ceasefire and facilitate a political solution to the conflict. The African union (AU), the Intergovernmental Authority on Progress (IGAD), and the United Nations have all played roles in these efforts. The United States and Saudi Arabia jointly brokered a ceasefire in Jeddah in May 2023, but it was repeatedly violated. U.S. Department of State – Sudan
As of January 20, 2026, mediation efforts continue, but have yielded limited results. the international community has also provided humanitarian assistance, but access constraints and security concerns hamper delivery efforts.
Example: On January 10, 2026, the European Union announced an additional €200 million in humanitarian aid for Sudan, bringing its total contribution to €450 million. European Commission Press Release
Recent Developments (as of January 20, 2026)
Fighting has intensified in El Fasher, North Darfur, with reports of heavy shelling and civilian casualties. The RSF has made gains in several areas of Kordofan state, threatening key supply routes. The SAF continues to maintain control of Khartoum, but faces ongoing attacks from the RSF.
The International criminal Court (ICC) is investigating alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity committed during the conflict. ICC – Situation in Sudan
Example: On January 18, 2026, the ICC announced it was expanding its inquiry to include allegations of sexual violence as a weapon of war. ICC Statement
