Pope Leo XIV called for an immediate ceasefire in Sudan during his Angelus prayer at St. Peter’s Square, expressing deep concern over the ongoing conflict that has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and millions of displacements since fighting erupted in 2023. He urged the international community to intervene and ensure humanitarian corridors for civilians, specifically highlighting the situation in el-Obeid. The conflict has primarily been between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), stemming from disagreements on military integration. As of June, approximately 8.69 million people have been internally displaced, and more than 4.64 million have returned to various regions within or outside Sudan. Additionally, Pope Leo addressed the escalating civilian casualties in the Russia-Ukraine war, standing in solidarity with affected families.
Why It Matters
The conflict in Sudan is rooted in a power struggle between the Sudanese army and the RSF, which has its origins in the country’s complex military and political landscape following the ousting of former President Omar al-Bashir in 2019. This protracted violence has not only led to a humanitarian crisis, with millions displaced, but it also destabilizes the broader region, affecting neighboring countries and international relations. The ongoing situation highlights the challenges of peacekeeping and humanitarian assistance in conflict zones, as international efforts to provide aid often face significant hurdles. The continued violence in Sudan is emblematic of the larger issues of governance and security in post-revolutionary states.
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