Breaking News: A US visa denial to Sudan’s military leader has deepened a rift over a ceasefire, revealing external powers vying for influence in the country.
The United States has withheld a visa for General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, Sudan’s de facto leader, preventing his attendance at the UN General Assembly. This action coincides with a stalled US-backed ceasefire attempt and highlights a growing divergence between Washington and Khartoum. Burhan, head of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), defiantly stated Sudan would “not accept bargaining” or “bow to anyone” following the visa denial, according to Anadolu Agency.
The State Department accuses both the SAF and the rival Rapid Support Forces (RSF) of failing to commit to a truce and intensifying combat, adding that neither represents legitimate governance for Sudan. A senior advisor to Burhan, Dr. Amjad Farid Al-Tayyib, countered this claim, stating Sudan never rejected a US ceasefire proposal and submitted technical comments instead. Tayyib accused Washington of undermining diplomatic efforts by barring the Sudanese delegation from travelling. The UN also challenged the visa decision, raising the issue with US authorities.
The dispute extends beyond the ceasefire. Reports indicate external powers are actively supporting both sides of the conflict. The UK government assessment identified UAE and neighbouring countries backing the RSF, while Egypt, Iran, Pakistan and Turkey support the SAF. This regional competition centres on Sudan’s strategic Red Sea coastline and its valuable resources – including gold, agriculture and vital oil infrastructure. Former National Security Council official Cameron Hudson noted the US strategy lacked “personal diplomacy,” with a key negotiator never having visited Sudan.
The conflict, which erupted in April 2023, has killed tens of thousands and displaced millions, creating one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises. The US insists a cessation of hostilities, civilian transition, and a halt to external support are vital for progress. Washington’s frustration is evident, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio stating the conflict wouldn’t occur “were it not for external actors.”
Meaningful progress hinges on external powers pressuring their proxies to adhere to commitments. A resolution is not imminent.
Sources: Fox News, The Daily Telegraph, The Jerusalem Post.
