Sudan’s rival armed forces turn their confrontation into open war
The outbreak of fighting placed civilian protection and humanitarian access at the centre of the crisis.
Fighting broke out between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces on 15 April 2023. UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the violence and called on the leaders of the opposing forces to halt hostilities. The confrontation put civilians in immediate danger and threatened the country’s political transition.
Civilians caught between armed forces
The confrontation threatened the political transition while exposing civilians to fighting between rival security organisations. Disruption to transport, hospitals and food distribution could deepen the consequences beyond the front lines. The UN’s immediate priorities were a halt to hostilities and civilian protection, placing pressure on the commanders to contain a conflict with wider humanitarian risks.
Sources & verification
Sources consulted on 30 September 2026. Event dates are stated above.
