Sudan crisis: Amid ongoing fight, paramilitary group RSF announces 72-hour ceasefire

Violence in Sudan is entering its seventh day, with the country’s paramilitary Rapid Support Force (RSF) announcing a 72-hour ceasefire starting Friday, Al Jazeera reported. In a statement, the paramilitary forces announced the ceasefire would take effect at 6am (04:00 GMT) on Friday, marking the start of the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Fitr amid heavy fighting with the army in the country. The capital of Khartoum.

“The ceasefire coincides with the blessed Eid al-Fitr, and opens humanitarian corridors for the evacuation of civilians and gives them the opportunity to greet their families,” Al Jazeera quoted the statement as saying.

A conflict between Sudan’s military leader and his deputy in the ruling council erupted six days ago, derailing plans for a transition to a civilian democracy that was backed by international support, four years after widespread protests toppled the previous government. overthrown and a military coup two years later. Sudan has been rocked by nearly six days of violent clashes between the country’s army and a paramilitary group over a proposed deadline for handing over power to a civilian government.

Nearly 300 people have died in the last five days, according to the UN health agency.