UN envoy: No military solution to Sudan war, calls for global pressure

Pekka Haavisto, the United Nations' envoy for Sudan, has stated that military action cannot resolve the country's ongoing conflict. The envoy urged international pressure to de-escalate the war and create a path towards a political solution. Speaking to Al Arabiya, Haavisto said the UN is ramping up its international and UN-led efforts to find a resolution to the crisis.

He confirmed that discussions are ongoing with both the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces, aimed at building trust and paving the way for peace. Haavisto endorsed the international Quartet's proposal for a humanitarian truce, which is part of the broader efforts by the Sudan Quartet and the Quintet to support a Sudanese-led political process.

The humanitarian truce is crucial for easing civilian suffering and facilitating aid delivery, setting the stage for a ceasefire and subsequent political negotiations. Haavisto maintains contact with both sides of the conflict to foster trust and facilitate progress toward a ceasefire. The envoy's recent visit to Khartoum included discussions with representatives from the African Union, IGAD, the Arab League, the European Union, and the UN, focusing on peace and Sudanese dialogue.

In September, Haavisto led diplomatic missions to Sudan and Egypt, engaging with officials and regional stakeholders to advance efforts to end the war, enhance coordination between the Quartet and Quintet, and push for a truce, ceasefire, and political process.