UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres was "shocked" by a letter he received on Friday from Sudan's military ruler General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan demanding the removal of his ambassador to Sudan, according to his spokesperson.

"The Secretary-General is proud of the work done by (UN Special Representative to Sudan) Volker Perthes and reaffirms his full confidence in his Special Representative," said UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric in a written statement on Friday.

Burhan had written to Guterres, requesting that Perthes be removed from his position, according to Reuters, citing officials in Sudan's presidency.

Weeks of intense combat in Sudan between Burhan's Sudanese Armed Forces and the country's Rapid Support Forces commanded by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo have shattered expectations for a peaceful transition to civilian government, reported CNN.

Perthes, who was nominated to his position in 2021, has expressed deep worry about the dispute. He criticised both leaders of Sudan's warring groups in a presentation to the UN Security Council earlier this week, warning of "a growing ethnicisation of the conflict."

Despite a seven-day truce that is set to expire this weekend, combat between both sides has persisted. According to the US embassy in Khartoum, media have lately witnessed the use of artillery and military aircraft and drones, airstrikes, prolonged combat in the heart of the Khartoum Industrial Area, and battles in Zalingei, Darfur.

Perthes told the Security Council that blame for the violence "rests with those who are waging it daily: the leadership of the two sides who share accountability for choosing to settle their unresolved conflict on the battlefield rather than at the table."

According to UNICEF, the Sudanese violence has taken a devastating toll on civilians, with over 700 people killed, including 190 children, and 6,000 others&nbsp;injured.

Over a million people have been displaced, seeking refuge in rural regions, neighbouring Sudanese states, or crossing Sudanese borders.

<h2>Over one million displaced</h2>

According to the United Nations refugee agency, five weeks of violence in Sudan has&nbsp;displaced more than one million people, including a quarter-million refugees.

Sudan has been at war since April 15, when differences between army leader Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and the head of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), Mohamed Hamdan "Hemedti" Dagalo, erupted into an armed confrontation. Hundreds of people have been slain in the conflict&nbsp;that has&nbsp;transformed Khartoum's streets and other parts of the country into battlegrounds.

Speaking to reporters in Geneva on Friday, Matthew Saltmarsh, a spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), said 843,000 people have been internally displaced as a result of the violence, reported Al Jazeera.

Around 250,000 people have left Sudan's borders, largely into Egypt, Chad, Ethiopia, and South Sudan, according to Saltmarsh, who said that Egypt has accepted the greatest number of Sudanese refugees so far, at around 110,000. 
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UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres was "shocked" by a letter he received on Friday from Sudan's military ruler General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan demanding the removal of his ambassador to Sudan, according to his spokesperson.

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres was "shocked" by a letter he received on Friday from Sudan's military ruler General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan demanding the removal of his ambassador to Sudan, according to his spokesperson. "The Secretary-General is proud of the work done by (UN Special Representative to Sudan) Volker Perthes and reaffirms his full confidence in his Special Representative," said UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric in a written statement on Friday. Burhan had written to Guterres, requesting that Perthes be removed from his position, according to Reuters, citing officials in Sudan's presidency. Weeks of intense combat in Sudan between Burhan's Sudanese Armed Forces and the country's Rapid Support Forces commanded by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo have shattered expectations for a peaceful transition to civilian government, reported CNN. Perthes, who was nominated to his position in 2021, has expressed deep worry about the dispute. He criticised both leaders of Sudan's warring groups in a presentation to the UN Security Council earlier this week, warning of "a growing ethnicisation of the conflict." Despite a seven-day truce that is set to expire this weekend, combat between both sides has persisted. According to the US embassy in Khartoum, media have lately witnessed the use of artillery and military aircraft and drones, airstrikes, prolonged combat in the heart of the Khartoum Industrial Area, and battles in Zalingei, Darfur. Perthes told the Security Council that blame for the violence "rests with those who are waging it daily: the leadership of the two sides who share accountability for choosing to settle their unresolved conflict on the battlefield rather than at the table." According to UNICEF, the Sudanese violence has taken a devastating toll on civilians, with over 700 people killed, including 190 children, and 6,000 others injured. Over a million people have been displaced, seeking refuge in rural regions, neighbouring Sudanese states, or crossing Sudanese borders. Over one million displaced According to the United Nations refugee agency, five weeks of violence in Sudan has displaced more than one million people, including a quarter-million refugees. Sudan has been at war since April 15, when differences between army leader Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and the head of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), Mohamed Hamdan "Hemedti" Dagalo, erupted into an armed confrontation. Hundreds of people have been slain in the conflict that has transformed Khartoum's streets and other parts of the country into battlegrounds. Speaking to reporters in Geneva on Friday, Matthew Saltmarsh, a spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), said 843,000 people have been internally displaced as a result of the violence, reported Al Jazeera. Around 250,000 people have left Sudan's borders, largely into Egypt, Chad, Ethiopia, and South Sudan, according to Saltmarsh, who said that Egypt has accepted the greatest number of Sudanese refugees so far, at around 110,000. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UN chief ‘shocked’ by letter from Sudan’s military ruler urging removal of special envoy

The rival factions in Sudan continue to clash despite the ceasefire in the capital city of Khartoum, on Wednesday (May 24), reported Reuters citing residents. This comes amid fears that the fighting could break the fragile United States-Saudi Arabia brokered weeklong ceasefire deal. Meanwhile, the International Organization for Migration (IMO) said that more than a million people have been displaced within the country since the fighting began over a month ago.&nbsp;

<h2>US and Saudi Arabia&nbsp; monitoring ceasefire</h2>

The weeklong ceasefire which is being monitored by the US and Saudi Arabia was off to a shaky start after witnesses since late Monday&nbsp;in the capital, Khartoum, have been reporting&nbsp;fighter jets over the city and continued fighting in some areas. Meanwhile, the observers from the two countries noted that the “fighting in Khartoum appeared to be less intense”.&nbsp;

The agreement came after the warring Sudanese army and paramilitary faction Rapid Support Forces (RSF) had previously violated multiple ceasefire agreements. Washington and Riyadh addressing the reports said there is some indication that “both sides violated the agreement” but stressed that the efforts to deliver “lifesaving assistance” to the people of Sudan are underway.&nbsp;

<h2>'Heartbreaking': UN Human Rights chief about&nbsp;Sudan</h2>

According to recent data from Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project (ACLED), more than 1,800 people have lost their lives since the fighting began on April 15. The conflict has also worsened the country’s humanitarian crisis as over a million people have been forced to flee their homes.&nbsp;

The IMO, on Wednesday, said 319,000 people have sought refuge in neighbouring countries out of which, over 132,000 refugees arrived in Egypt; 80,000 in Chad; and 69,000 in South Sudan. “In spite of successive ceasefires, civilians continue to be exposed to serious risk of death and injury,” said UN Human Rights chief Volker Turk.&nbsp;

He also called the situation in Sudan “heartbreaking,” at a press briefing in Geneva and went on to address the two warring generals directly and said, “General (Abdel Fattah) al-Burhan, General (Mohamed Hamdan) Dagalo, you must issue clear instructions, in no uncertain terms to all those under your command, that there is zero tolerance for sexual violence...civilians must be spared and you must stop this senseless violence now.”&nbsp;

Turk also said that his office has found at least 25 cases of sexual violence so far but believes that the real number is much higher.&nbsp;

<h2>Fighting continues with some respite</h2>

Columns of black smoke could be seen rising into the air in areas west of central Khartoum, while witnesses told Reuters, on Wednesday that there was shelling near an army camp in the southern part of the capital city.&nbsp;

In Omdurman, witnesses said that an army fighter plane had been shot down, the footage of which appeared on social media but could not independently be verified. Additionally, gunfire was heard in the Jabra neighbourhood of southern Khartoum.&nbsp;

Ali Mohammed, a resident of the Sudanese capital city, as per AFP&nbsp;said that the water supply had not been restored as of Wednesday “but at least I was able to go out and buy water for my family”.&nbsp;

Another resident, 55-year-old, Mohammed Taher, said he was finally able to go to the city’s central market “five kilometres away to buy food and return without incident”.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
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The rival factions in Sudan continue to clash despite the ceasefire in the capital city of Khartoum, on Wednesday (May 24), reported Reuters citing residents. This comes amid fears that the fighting could break the fragile United States-Saudi Arabia brokered weeklong ceasefire deal.

The rival factions in Sudan continue to clash despite the ceasefire in the capital city of Khartoum, on Wednesday (May 24), reported Reuters citing residents. This comes amid fears that the fighting could break the fragile United States-Saudi Arabia brokered weeklong ceasefire deal. Meanwhile, the International Organization for Migration (IMO) said that more than a million people have been displaced within the country since the fighting began over a month ago. US and Saudi Arabia monitoring ceasefire The weeklong ceasefire which is being monitored by the US and Saudi Arabia was off to a shaky start after witnesses since late Monday in the capital, Khartoum, have been reporting fighter jets over the city and continued fighting in some areas. Meanwhile, the observers from the two countries noted that the “fighting in Khartoum appeared to be less intense”. The agreement came after the warring Sudanese army and paramilitary faction Rapid Support Forces (RSF) had previously violated multiple ceasefire agreements. Washington and Riyadh addressing the reports said there is some indication that “both sides violated the agreement” but stressed that the efforts to deliver “lifesaving assistance” to the people of Sudan are underway. 'Heartbreaking': UN Human Rights chief about Sudan According to recent data from Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project (ACLED), more than 1,800 people have lost their lives since the fighting began on April 15. The conflict has also worsened the country’s humanitarian crisis as over a million people have been forced to flee their homes. The IMO, on Wednesday, said 319,000 people have sought refuge in neighbouring countries out of which, over 132,000 refugees arrived in Egypt; 80,000 in Chad; and 69,000 in South Sudan. “In spite of successive ceasefires, civilians continue to be exposed to serious risk of death and injury,” said UN Human Rights chief Volker Turk. He also called the situation in Sudan “heartbreaking,” at a press briefing in Geneva and went on to address the two warring generals directly and said, “General (Abdel Fattah) al-Burhan, General (Mohamed Hamdan) Dagalo, you must issue clear instructions, in no uncertain terms to all those under your command, that there is zero tolerance for sexual violence...civilians must be spared and you must stop this senseless violence now.” Turk also said that his office has found at least 25 cases of sexual violence so far but believes that the real number is much higher. Fighting continues with some respite Columns of black smoke could be seen rising into the air in areas west of central Khartoum, while witnesses told Reuters, on Wednesday that there was shelling near an army camp in the southern part of the capital city. In Omdurman, witnesses said that an army fighter plane had been shot down, the footage of which appeared on social media but could not independently be verified. Additionally, gunfire was heard in the Jabra neighbourhood of southern Khartoum. Ali Mohammed, a resident of the Sudanese capital city, as per AFP said that the water supply had not been restored as of Wednesday “but at least I was able to go out and buy water for my family”. Another resident, 55-year-old, Mohammed Taher, said he was finally able to go to the city’s central market “five kilometres away to buy food and return without incident”. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Sudan witnesses clashes amid ceasefire; more than a million people displaced due to fighting

As a massive debt crisis in the United States looms, US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy said on Monday (May 22) that talks with President Joe Biden to counter the threat were productive, but there was no agreement on how to raise the government's $31.4 trillion debt ceiling. McCarthy said that their staff would continue the talks and he also believes that they "can still get there".&nbsp;

Clashes and airstrikes were reported in Sudan's capital city Khartoum just minutes after a ceasefire between the warring factions- the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF)- started on Monday. The ceasefire, which is week-long, started at 9.45 pm (19.45 GMT), but it turned out to be similar to the other truces that have been announced and breached during the fighting.&nbsp;

And columnist E. Jean Carroll requested a US court judge to amend her initial defamation case in which she received $5 million in damages, to include former president Donald Trump's recent statements at a CNN town hall.

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-debt-crisis-mccarthy-says-debt-talks-productive-but-no-agreement-595305">US debt crisis: McCarthy says debt talks 'productive' but no agreement</a>

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The discussions between United States President Joe Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy ended on Monday (May 22), with no agreement on how to raise the government's $31.4 trillion debt ceiling.&nbsp;As a massive crisis looms, McCarthy said that the talks with Biden to counter the debt default threat had been "productive".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudan-unrest-clashes-air-strikes-minutes-after-ceasefire-started-595279">Sudan unrest: Clashes, air strikes minutes after ceasefire started</a>

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Clashes erupted and also there were reports of air strikes in Khartoum, Sudan just minutes after a ceasefire between the army and paramilitary Rapid Support Forces officially went into force on Monday, news agency AFP reported citing witnesses.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/e-jean-carroll-seeks-new-damages-after-trumps-cnn-town-hall-tirade-595316">E. Jean Carroll seeks new damages after Trump's CNN town hall tirade</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/04/29/348548-new-wion-31.png?imwidth=1920" />

Journalist E. Jean Carroll has requested a US court judge to amend her initial defamation case in which she received $5 million in damages, to include Donald Trump's recent statements at a CNN town hall. The former president repeated his claims at the interview which Carroll believes was another attempt at defaming her.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/belgorod-governor-claims-ukraine-shells-russias-border-region-595250">Belgorod governor claims Ukraine shelled Russia's border region</a>

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At least five were injured after Ukrainian forces shelled the Belgorod region on Russia's border with Ukraine on Monday (May 22), the region's governor said, further adding that several houses were damaged and power lines were disrupted. So far, there are no reports of any fatalities.&nbsp;

WATCH | Thailand's Move Forward party &amp; its seven political allies sign MoU | World DNA

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As a massive debt crisis in the United States looms, US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy said on Monday (May 22) that talks with President Joe Biden to counter the threat were productive, but there was no agreement on how to raise the government's $31.

As a massive debt crisis in the United States looms, US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy said on Monday (May 22) that talks with President Joe Biden to counter the threat were productive, but there was no agreement on how to raise the government's $31.4 trillion debt ceiling. McCarthy said that their staff would continue the talks and he also believes that they "can still get there". Clashes and airstrikes were reported in Sudan's capital city Khartoum just minutes after a ceasefire between the warring factions- the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF)- started on Monday. The ceasefire, which is week-long, started at 9.45 pm (19.45 GMT), but it turned out to be similar to the other truces that have been announced and breached during the fighting. And columnist E. Jean Carroll requested a US court judge to amend her initial defamation case in which she received $5 million in damages, to include former president Donald Trump's recent statements at a CNN town hall. Click on the headlines to read more: US debt crisis: McCarthy says debt talks 'productive' but no agreement The discussions between United States President Joe Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy ended on Monday (May 22), with no agreement on how to raise the government's $31.4 trillion debt ceiling. As a massive crisis looms, McCarthy said that the talks with Biden to counter the debt default threat had been "productive". Sudan unrest: Clashes, air strikes minutes after ceasefire started Clashes erupted and also there were reports of air strikes in Khartoum, Sudan just minutes after a ceasefire between the army and paramilitary Rapid Support Forces officially went into force on Monday, news agency AFP reported citing witnesses. E. Jean Carroll seeks new damages after Trump's CNN town hall tirade Journalist E. Jean Carroll has requested a US court judge to amend her initial defamation case in which she received $5 million in damages, to include Donald Trump's recent statements at a CNN town hall. The former president repeated his claims at the interview which Carroll believes was another attempt at defaming her. Belgorod governor claims Ukraine shelled Russia's border region At least five were injured after Ukrainian forces shelled the Belgorod region on Russia's border with Ukraine on Monday (May 22), the region's governor said, further adding that several houses were damaged and power lines were disrupted. So far, there are no reports of any fatalities. WATCH | Thailand's Move Forward party & its seven political allies sign MoU | World DNA × WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Morning brief: Sudan unrest updates; McCarthy says US debt talks 'productive' but no agreement, & more

In yet another daring operation by the Indian Air Force (IAF), the C-17 Globemaster III strategic airlifter&nbsp;carried out a 24-hour operation to rescue 192 women, children and elderly from conflict-stricken Sudan. The rescue mission executed under India's Operation Kaveri was successful in bringing back people among the last of those left in the North-African nation.&nbsp;The ongoing conflict between factions loyal to rival Generals in Sudan has killed hundreds and displaced thousands of people.&nbsp;

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9600kms flown in 24hrs; 192 women, kids&amp; elderly rescued from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sudan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sudan</a> in a non-stop mission 
 
Indian Air Force C17 Globemaster III flew from Hindon to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Jeddah?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Jeddah</a> (tanked up on extra fuel), flew to Sudan(kept engines running&amp; boarded pax) flew straight back to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/india?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#india</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IAF_MCC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IAF_MCC</a>🙏🇮🇳❤️ <a href="https://t.co/1Hz6wyC0Tf">pic.twitter.com/1Hz6wyC0Tf</a>
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According to the Indian Air Force, the C-17 aircraft departed from the Hindon Air Force Station, near New Delhi, on the intervening night of May 3rd and 4th.&nbsp;The heavy-lifter aircraft made a pit stop in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, where keeping in mind the challenges of refuelling in its conflict-hit destination, Sudan, it tanked up on extra fuel.

This mission was undertaken to repatriate 192 passengers - mostly women, children and elderly individuals, who were either NRIs, foreign nationals or OCIs (Overseas Citizens of India). The military aircraft had to fly from Jeddah to Sudan and then directly back to India in a non-stop flight, as the passengers were not permitted to land in Jeddah.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/operation-kaveri-indian-air-force-evacuates-1400-including-elderlies-aged-90-and-102-587822">Operation Kaveri: Indian Air Force evacuates 1,400, including senior citizen aged 102 from Sudan</a>

Given the ongoing conflict in Sudan, the military aircraft performing repatriation flights are landing at their own risk and must undertake necessary measures for their safety. As part of the daring mission, the C-17 aircrew, as per the IAF, "carried out an overhead steep tactical arrival followed by an assault approach to land the heavy jet."&nbsp;

IAF Spokesperson Wing Commander Ashish Moghe explained to WION that the steep landings are performed in order to safeguard from the threats of small-arms fire from the ground.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/operation-kaveri-india-bring-back-another-batch-of-229-people-from-sudan-587620">Operation Kaveri: India brings back another batch of 229 people from Sudan</a>

He added that the angle of approach during such a landing would be higher than that of a conventional landing. As the aircraft stood on the tarmac and passengers boarded, the plane's engines were kept running in precautionary anticipation of a quick exit. &nbsp;

While flying back from Sudan to India, the C-17 crew faced another unplanned emergency when one of the passengers fell unconscious. However, the crew immediately handled the situation and stabilised the patient by providing him with oxygen. IAF said that the C-17 carrying 192 passengers from Sudan landed at Ahmedabad late Thursday evening and then at the home base of Hindon, later that night. The C-17 Globemaster III flew close to 9600 km as part of this mission, with the aircrew flying extended duty periods of nearly 24 hours.

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In yet another daring operation by the Indian Air Force (IAF), the C-17 Globemaster III strategic airlifter carried out a 24-hour operation to rescue 192 women, children and elderly from conflict-stricken Sudan.

In yet another daring operation by the Indian Air Force (IAF), the C-17 Globemaster III strategic airlifter carried out a 24-hour operation to rescue 192 women, children and elderly from conflict-stricken Sudan. The rescue mission executed under India's Operation Kaveri was successful in bringing back people among the last of those left in the North-African nation. The ongoing conflict between factions loyal to rival Generals in Sudan has killed hundreds and displaced thousands of people. 9600kms flown in 24hrs; 192 women, kids& elderly rescued from #Sudan in a non-stop mission Indian Air Force C17 Globemaster III flew from Hindon to #Jeddah (tanked up on extra fuel), flew to Sudan(kept engines running& boarded pax) flew straight back to #india @IAF_MCC🙏🇮🇳❤️ pic.twitter.com/1Hz6wyC0Tf — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) May 5, 2023 × According to the Indian Air Force, the C-17 aircraft departed from the Hindon Air Force Station, near New Delhi, on the intervening night of May 3rd and 4th. The heavy-lifter aircraft made a pit stop in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, where keeping in mind the challenges of refuelling in its conflict-hit destination, Sudan, it tanked up on extra fuel. This mission was undertaken to repatriate 192 passengers - mostly women, children and elderly individuals, who were either NRIs, foreign nationals or OCIs (Overseas Citizens of India). The military aircraft had to fly from Jeddah to Sudan and then directly back to India in a non-stop flight, as the passengers were not permitted to land in Jeddah. Also read | Operation Kaveri: Indian Air Force evacuates 1,400, including senior citizen aged 102 from Sudan Given the ongoing conflict in Sudan, the military aircraft performing repatriation flights are landing at their own risk and must undertake necessary measures for their safety. As part of the daring mission, the C-17 aircrew, as per the IAF, "carried out an overhead steep tactical arrival followed by an assault approach to land the heavy jet." IAF Spokesperson Wing Commander Ashish Moghe explained to WION that the steep landings are performed in order to safeguard from the threats of small-arms fire from the ground. Also read | Operation Kaveri: India brings back another batch of 229 people from Sudan He added that the angle of approach during such a landing would be higher than that of a conventional landing. As the aircraft stood on the tarmac and passengers boarded, the plane's engines were kept running in precautionary anticipation of a quick exit. While flying back from Sudan to India, the C-17 crew faced another unplanned emergency when one of the passengers fell unconscious. However, the crew immediately handled the situation and stabilised the patient by providing him with oxygen. IAF said that the C-17 carrying 192 passengers from Sudan landed at Ahmedabad late Thursday evening and then at the home base of Hindon, later that night. The C-17 Globemaster III flew close to 9600 km as part of this mission, with the aircrew flying extended duty periods of nearly 24 hours. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

IAF pulls off 24hr non-stop rescue mission; flies 9600 km to rescue 192 from conflict-stricken Sudan

Sudan’s two warring forces — The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) — have announced a seven-day ceasefire even as mass exodus continued and death toll breached the 500-mark.

In a statement on Tuesday, South Sudan’s foreign ministry said that both sides would send representatives for peace talks “to be held at an agreed venue of their choice”, reports CNN.

However, it is unclear whether the warring forces would abide by the truce as similar ceasefire announcements have failed to yield any results in the past.

Moreover, the SAF and RSF are yet to respond to the South Sudan ministry’s statement through their official channels.

The latest announcement comes after the UN’s refugee agency (UNHCR) warned that more than 800,000 people may flee to neighboring countries, as the ongoing violence stifles evacuation convoys from key ports in Sudan.

According to estimates, 73,000 refugees — mostly women and children — have already fled Sudan to neighboring countries like Chad, Egypt, South Sudan and the Central African Republic, amidst fears of regional instability.

<h2>United Nations estimates over 800,000 could flee Sudan if fighting continues&nbsp;</h2>

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Concerns over shortages of food, water, and medical supplies, have triggered the mass exodus. The fighting has also rendered all hospitals useless, as many of them are not operational, or in some way damaged.

According to reports, the fuel crisis has paved the way for black market trade, forcing many people to abandon their vehicles&nbsp;and trudge on foot to escape.

World Health Organization (WHO) regional director Ahmed al-Mandhari said that health facilities have come under attack in Khartoum, and some are even being used as military bases.

"Up to now there were around 26 reported attacks on healthcare facilities. Some of these attacks resulted in the death of healthcare workers and civilians in these hospitals," he told the BBC.

The ongoing armed conflict between two generals — General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and Chief General Mohamed Hamdan Dagaloof of the paramilitary group RSF — began on April 15.

The conflict has already crossed into the third week, and since it started, has resulted in the death of at least 528 people. As per estimates by the Sudanese health ministry, an additional 4,599 have been injured in the fighting.

(With inputs from agencies) 
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Sudan’s two warring forces — The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) — have announced a seven-day ceasefire even as mass exodus continued and death toll breached the 500-mark.

Sudan’s two warring forces — The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) — have announced a seven-day ceasefire even as mass exodus continued and death toll breached the 500-mark. In a statement on Tuesday, South Sudan’s foreign ministry said that both sides would send representatives for peace talks “to be held at an agreed venue of their choice”, reports CNN. However, it is unclear whether the warring forces would abide by the truce as similar ceasefire announcements have failed to yield any results in the past. Moreover, the SAF and RSF are yet to respond to the South Sudan ministry’s statement through their official channels. The latest announcement comes after the UN’s refugee agency (UNHCR) warned that more than 800,000 people may flee to neighboring countries, as the ongoing violence stifles evacuation convoys from key ports in Sudan. According to estimates, 73,000 refugees — mostly women and children — have already fled Sudan to neighboring countries like Chad, Egypt, South Sudan and the Central African Republic, amidst fears of regional instability. United Nations estimates over 800,000 could flee Sudan if fighting continues Concerns over shortages of food, water, and medical supplies, have triggered the mass exodus. The fighting has also rendered all hospitals useless, as many of them are not operational, or in some way damaged. According to reports, the fuel crisis has paved the way for black market trade, forcing many people to abandon their vehicles and trudge on foot to escape. World Health Organization (WHO) regional director Ahmed al-Mandhari said that health facilities have come under attack in Khartoum, and some are even being used as military bases. "Up to now there were around 26 reported attacks on healthcare facilities. Some of these attacks resulted in the death of healthcare workers and civilians in these hospitals," he told the BBC. The ongoing armed conflict between two generals — General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and Chief General Mohamed Hamdan Dagaloof of the paramilitary group RSF — began on April 15. The conflict has already crossed into the third week, and since it started, has resulted in the death of at least 528 people. As per estimates by the Sudanese health ministry, an additional 4,599 have been injured in the fighting. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Sudan’s warring army and paramilitary force agree to seven-day truce, says South Sudan

The Sudan crisis continues to escalate and considering the current security situation in the African country, India has temporarily relocated its embassy from the violence-hit capital city of Khartoum to Port Sudan.&nbsp;

Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Tuesday: "In view of the prevailing security situation in Sudan, including attacks in Khartoum city, it has been decided that the Indian Embassy in Khartoum will be temporarily relocated to Port Sudan."&nbsp;

"The situation will be assessed in the light of further developments," the MEA further added. Port Sudan is a port city on the Red Sea in eastern Sudan and is located at a distance of around 850 kilometres from Khartoum.&nbsp;

The embassy was shifted after news agency Reuters reported that India's embassy in Khartoum was stormed and looted, Sudan's army said in a statement, citing a report from the ambassador. But the incident hasn't been conformed by India yet.&nbsp;

The report further added that Saudi Arabia's foreign ministry said early on Wednesday that its building in Khartoum that houses its cultural mission was similarly vandalised and looted by an armed group.&nbsp;

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New Delhi launched "Operation Kaveri", an ongoing evacuation conducted by the Indian Armed Forces to move safely Indian citizens from Sudan and an embassy in Port Sudan will be beneficial for the authorities as the Indian embassy in Khartoum is located just opposite the airport in the city and that zone has seen a lot of fighting.&nbsp;

Under the evacuation programme, Indians stuck in Sudan are being brought back home in either commercial flights or the IAF's aircraft. Separate control rooms have been&nbsp;set up in Jeddah and Port Sudan.

The MEA said in a statement: "The Embassy may be approached at the following numbers: +249 999163790; +249 119592986; +249 915028256 and E-mail: cons1.Khartoum@mea.Gov.In."&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

<h2>Ceasefire in Sudan</h2>

The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) announced a seven-day ceasefire. But Reuters reported that there were more air strikes and shooting in the capital region, undercutting the latest supposed truce.&nbsp;

The UN migration agency said that some 330,000 Sudanese have also been displaced inside Sudan's borders by the war and about 800,000 people could eventually leave.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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The Sudan crisis continues to escalate and considering the current security situation in the African country, India has temporarily relocated its embassy from the violence-hit capital city of Khartoum to Port Sudan.

The Sudan crisis continues to escalate and considering the current security situation in the African country, India has temporarily relocated its embassy from the violence-hit capital city of Khartoum to Port Sudan. Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Tuesday: "In view of the prevailing security situation in Sudan, including attacks in Khartoum city, it has been decided that the Indian Embassy in Khartoum will be temporarily relocated to Port Sudan." "The situation will be assessed in the light of further developments," the MEA further added. Port Sudan is a port city on the Red Sea in eastern Sudan and is located at a distance of around 850 kilometres from Khartoum. The embassy was shifted after news agency Reuters reported that India's embassy in Khartoum was stormed and looted, Sudan's army said in a statement, citing a report from the ambassador. But the incident hasn't been conformed by India yet. The report further added that Saudi Arabia's foreign ministry said early on Wednesday that its building in Khartoum that houses its cultural mission was similarly vandalised and looted by an armed group. Watch this video: × New Delhi launched "Operation Kaveri", an ongoing evacuation conducted by the Indian Armed Forces to move safely Indian citizens from Sudan and an embassy in Port Sudan will be beneficial for the authorities as the Indian embassy in Khartoum is located just opposite the airport in the city and that zone has seen a lot of fighting. Under the evacuation programme, Indians stuck in Sudan are being brought back home in either commercial flights or the IAF's aircraft. Separate control rooms have been set up in Jeddah and Port Sudan. The MEA said in a statement: "The Embassy may be approached at the following numbers: +249 999163790; +249 119592986; +249 915028256 and E-mail: cons1.Khartoum@mea.Gov.In." Ceasefire in Sudan The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) announced a seven-day ceasefire. But Reuters reported that there were more air strikes and shooting in the capital region, undercutting the latest supposed truce. The UN migration agency said that some 330,000 Sudanese have also been displaced inside Sudan's borders by the war and about 800,000 people could eventually leave. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Clashes in Sudan: India relocates embassy from Khartoum to Port Sudan amid crisis

The first flight of the Red Cross&nbsp;carrying humanitarian aid landed in Sudan on Sunday, where deadly clashes between forces of rival generals continued for the third week.

"The eight tonnes of humanitarian cargo includes surgical material to support Sudanese hospitals and volunteers from the Sudan Red Crescent Society," said the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).

On April 15, the fighting started between forces which are loyal to two rival generals, leaving around 500 dead and thousands wounded while displacing tens of thousands from their homes.

Since the conflict started, dead bodies have remained on the capital's streets and the ICRC's Africa regional director Patrick Youssef, while speaking to journalists from the Sudanese Red Crescent, said that they are "trying to get to the bodies in the streets".

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudan-violence-enters-third-week-un-says-country-falling-apart-as-casualties-top-500-587527">Sudan violence enters third week: UN says country falling apart as casualties top 500</a>

Around 16 per cent of hospitals are completely functioning in the capital city of Khartoum, as per the report of the World Health Organisation, after many facilities were shelled in the ongoing fighting.

The shipment left Amman, the capital of Jordan, and arrived in the eastern city of Port Sudan which was called by Youssef as the only entry point currently available for aid to reach Sudan.

He stated that the medical kits present on the plane were "enough to stabilise 1,500 patients", adding that the ICRC was aiming for security guarantees to further send aid to Darfur and Khartoum.

The regional director stated that some aid was delivered by them to Darfur at the beginning, but "it was not enough, and we could not get anything to Khartoum".

Meanwhile, Sudan's former prime minister Abdalla Hamdok on Saturday warned that the conflict could turn into one of the worst civil wars in the world.

"God forbid if Sudan is to reach a point of civil war proper...Syria, Yemen, Libya will be a small play," said Hamdok speaking at an event in Nairobi. "I think it would be a nightmare for the world,” he added.

WATCH | Sudan violence enters third week, UN says country "Falling apart"

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UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has also appealed for negotiations to end the civil strife.

"There is no right to go on fighting for power when the country is falling apart," he said while speaking at Saudi-owned Al Arabiya television on Saturday.

"My appeal is for everything to be done to support an African-led initiative for peace in Sudan,” he added. Around 75,000 people have been displaced from their homes due to the fighting, said the UN.

Around 20,000 have fled to Chad, 4,000 to South Sudan, 3,500 to Ethiopia and 3,000 to the Central African Republic, it stated.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The first flight of the Red Cross carrying humanitarian aid landed in Sudan on Sunday, where deadly clashes between forces of rival generals continued for the third week.

The first flight of the Red Cross carrying humanitarian aid landed in Sudan on Sunday, where deadly clashes between forces of rival generals continued for the third week. "The eight tonnes of humanitarian cargo includes surgical material to support Sudanese hospitals and volunteers from the Sudan Red Crescent Society," said the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). On April 15, the fighting started between forces which are loyal to two rival generals, leaving around 500 dead and thousands wounded while displacing tens of thousands from their homes. Since the conflict started, dead bodies have remained on the capital's streets and the ICRC's Africa regional director Patrick Youssef, while speaking to journalists from the Sudanese Red Crescent, said that they are "trying to get to the bodies in the streets". ALSO READ | Sudan violence enters third week: UN says country falling apart as casualties top 500 Around 16 per cent of hospitals are completely functioning in the capital city of Khartoum, as per the report of the World Health Organisation, after many facilities were shelled in the ongoing fighting. The shipment left Amman, the capital of Jordan, and arrived in the eastern city of Port Sudan which was called by Youssef as the only entry point currently available for aid to reach Sudan. He stated that the medical kits present on the plane were "enough to stabilise 1,500 patients", adding that the ICRC was aiming for security guarantees to further send aid to Darfur and Khartoum. The regional director stated that some aid was delivered by them to Darfur at the beginning, but "it was not enough, and we could not get anything to Khartoum". Meanwhile, Sudan's former prime minister Abdalla Hamdok on Saturday warned that the conflict could turn into one of the worst civil wars in the world. "God forbid if Sudan is to reach a point of civil war proper...Syria, Yemen, Libya will be a small play," said Hamdok speaking at an event in Nairobi. "I think it would be a nightmare for the world,” he added. WATCH | Sudan violence enters third week, UN says country "Falling apart" UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has also appealed for negotiations to end the civil strife. "There is no right to go on fighting for power when the country is falling apart," he said while speaking at Saudi-owned Al Arabiya television on Saturday. "My appeal is for everything to be done to support an African-led initiative for peace in Sudan,” he added. Around 75,000 people have been displaced from their homes due to the fighting, said the UN. Around 20,000 have fled to Chad, 4,000 to South Sudan, 3,500 to Ethiopia and 3,000 to the Central African Republic, it stated. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Red Cross aid's first flight reaches Sudan as fighting intensifies

A family fleeing conflict-torn Sudan said they are among thousands of people stuck at the Egypt border as drivers are demanding $40,000 to hire a bus to travel across, according to a report by BBC on Saturday (April 29). The family had escaped the fighting in Sudan's capital city Khartoum. Speaking to the BBC from the border town of Wadi Halfa, Fadi Atabani said his family, which includes an 88-year-old woman, were trapped.&nbsp;

"There are thousands of people here. There is no accommodation. People are sleeping in schools or [on] mattresses," Atabani said. As per the report, most of the family members have British nationality and Atabani has been appealing to authorities in the United Kingdom (UK) for help.&nbsp;

"I cannot guarantee my children's medical health here we are in the middle of the desert. I want the British government to assist me in evacuating or a bus which can get us across the border," Atabani said and accused local bus drivers of taking advantage of the desperate situation travellers have found themselves in.&nbsp;

He said that normally, the cost of hiring a bus is $3,000, but at present people are paying $40,000.&nbsp;

"Who has that sort of money? The banks were closed, ATM machines are not working," he further told the BBC.&nbsp;

Hosna, a resident of Khartoum, said she had two daughters trapped in Sudan's capital city. Hosna said her daughters had to pay $400 each to travel to the border compared to $25 before the conflict in Sudan began on April 15. The woman arrived in Egypt Aswan's city before the fighting started.&nbsp;

"My daughters saw an artillery shell fall in our neighbourhood. I could not bring them here. I don't have a husband or a son to help them. I work day in and day out to save money," she added.&nbsp;

Esraa Bani, a Sudanese-American academic, who flew to the Egyptian city to help people arriving, said the bus prices increased astronomically.&nbsp;

Fighting in Sudan is raging despite the two warring factions — Sudan's army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) — agreeing to extend the ceasefire by another 72 hours. On Saturday, warplanes on bombing raids drew heavy anti-aircraft fire over Khartoum. 
 
Speaking to the news agency AFP, a witness in southern Khartoum said, "We woke up once again to the sound of fighter jets and anti-aircraft weapons blasting all over our neighbourhood."

Another witness, meanwhile, told AFP that fighting has been going on since early morning, especially around the state broadcaster's headquarters in Omdurman.

(With inputs from agencies) 
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A family fleeing conflict-torn Sudan said they are among thousands of people stuck at the Egypt border as drivers are demanding $40,000 to hire a bus to travel across, according to a report by BBC on Saturday (April 29).

A family fleeing conflict-torn Sudan said they are among thousands of people stuck at the Egypt border as drivers are demanding $40,000 to hire a bus to travel across, according to a report by BBC on Saturday (April 29). The family had escaped the fighting in Sudan's capital city Khartoum. Speaking to the BBC from the border town of Wadi Halfa, Fadi Atabani said his family, which includes an 88-year-old woman, were trapped. "There are thousands of people here. There is no accommodation. People are sleeping in schools or [on] mattresses," Atabani said. As per the report, most of the family members have British nationality and Atabani has been appealing to authorities in the United Kingdom (UK) for help. "I cannot guarantee my children's medical health here we are in the middle of the desert. I want the British government to assist me in evacuating or a bus which can get us across the border," Atabani said and accused local bus drivers of taking advantage of the desperate situation travellers have found themselves in. He said that normally, the cost of hiring a bus is $3,000, but at present people are paying $40,000. "Who has that sort of money? The banks were closed, ATM machines are not working," he further told the BBC. Hosna, a resident of Khartoum, said she had two daughters trapped in Sudan's capital city. Hosna said her daughters had to pay $400 each to travel to the border compared to $25 before the conflict in Sudan began on April 15. The woman arrived in Egypt Aswan's city before the fighting started. "My daughters saw an artillery shell fall in our neighbourhood. I could not bring them here. I don't have a husband or a son to help them. I work day in and day out to save money," she added. Esraa Bani, a Sudanese-American academic, who flew to the Egyptian city to help people arriving, said the bus prices increased astronomically. Fighting in Sudan is raging despite the two warring factions — Sudan's army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) — agreeing to extend the ceasefire by another 72 hours. On Saturday, warplanes on bombing raids drew heavy anti-aircraft fire over Khartoum. Speaking to the news agency AFP, a witness in southern Khartoum said, "We woke up once again to the sound of fighter jets and anti-aircraft weapons blasting all over our neighbourhood." Another witness, meanwhile, told AFP that fighting has been going on since early morning, especially around the state broadcaster's headquarters in Omdurman. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Sudan conflict: Bus drivers demanding $40,000 to help people cross Egypt border, says report

The United States' first coordinated efforts to evacuate its private citizens from Sudan took place on Friday when a convoy of buses carrying approximately 300 Americans departed the war-torn capital of Khartoum and began a 525-mile journey&nbsp;to the Red Sea.

Armed American drones flew high above the convoy, keeping a close eye out for potential threats. After securing security guarantees from the enemies, the United Nations and numerous other countries have also evacuated their citizens overland, reported The New York Times.&nbsp;

It raised new concerns about why the United States had taken so long to plan a civilian evacuation from Sudan, which was home to approximately 16,000 Americans, many of whom were dual nationals, when Western and Persian Gulf allies had moved faster and evacuated many&nbsp;more people.

Starting&nbsp;Tuesday, Britain has evacuated 1,573 people, the majority of whom are British citizens, from an airfield north of Khartoum. Another 1,700 people were airlifted out of harm's way by Germany and France. According to Saudi authorities, at least 3,000 more people from various nations were evacuated by boat from Port Sudan to Jeddah.

Other nations are already reducing their evacuation efforts as the U.S. steps up its own.&nbsp;Due to a "significant decline" in demand for seats, Britain announced on Friday that it would stop operating its airlift at 6 pm&nbsp;on Saturday.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudan-conflict-bus-drivers-demanding-40000-to-help-people-cross-egypt-border-says-report-587265">Sudan conflict: Bus drivers demanding $40,000 to help people cross Egypt border, says report</a>

The disparity could be a result of the American government taking a more cautious approach to airlifting civilians out of an unpredictably chaotic conflict zone with no clearly defined front lines. This concern appeared to be partially justified on Friday when Turkey reported that one of its military aircraft had come under fire as it landed at the airfield on the edge of Khartoum.

Other Americans have made it to the&nbsp;border on their own by road, crossing into Egypt and Ethiopia, joining tens of thousands of Sudanese who have made the same journey. The United States has assisted American citizens in getting seats on flights out of Khartoum organised by allied nations, and occasionally on convoys going through Khartoum to the airfield.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Indian Air Force pilots use Night Vision Goggles to land C-130J on degraded Sudan airstrip | Details

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As a result of a demand that was much lower than that of other Western countries, the United States first said that it would not evacuate American civilians or their families. Only "dozens" of Americans had expressed a desire to leave, according to Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken on Monday. 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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The United States' first coordinated efforts to evacuate its private citizens from Sudan took place on Friday when a convoy of buses carrying approximately 300 Americans departed the war-torn capital of Khartoum and began a 525-mile journey to the Red Sea.

The United States' first coordinated efforts to evacuate its private citizens from Sudan took place on Friday when a convoy of buses carrying approximately 300 Americans departed the war-torn capital of Khartoum and began a 525-mile journey to the Red Sea. Armed American drones flew high above the convoy, keeping a close eye out for potential threats. After securing security guarantees from the enemies, the United Nations and numerous other countries have also evacuated their citizens overland, reported The New York Times. It raised new concerns about why the United States had taken so long to plan a civilian evacuation from Sudan, which was home to approximately 16,000 Americans, many of whom were dual nationals, when Western and Persian Gulf allies had moved faster and evacuated many more people. Starting Tuesday, Britain has evacuated 1,573 people, the majority of whom are British citizens, from an airfield north of Khartoum. Another 1,700 people were airlifted out of harm's way by Germany and France. According to Saudi authorities, at least 3,000 more people from various nations were evacuated by boat from Port Sudan to Jeddah. Other nations are already reducing their evacuation efforts as the U.S. steps up its own. Due to a "significant decline" in demand for seats, Britain announced on Friday that it would stop operating its airlift at 6 pm on Saturday. ALSO READ | Sudan conflict: Bus drivers demanding $40,000 to help people cross Egypt border, says report The disparity could be a result of the American government taking a more cautious approach to airlifting civilians out of an unpredictably chaotic conflict zone with no clearly defined front lines. This concern appeared to be partially justified on Friday when Turkey reported that one of its military aircraft had come under fire as it landed at the airfield on the edge of Khartoum. Other Americans have made it to the border on their own by road, crossing into Egypt and Ethiopia, joining tens of thousands of Sudanese who have made the same journey. The United States has assisted American citizens in getting seats on flights out of Khartoum organised by allied nations, and occasionally on convoys going through Khartoum to the airfield. ALSO WATCH | Indian Air Force pilots use Night Vision Goggles to land C-130J on degraded Sudan airstrip | Details As a result of a demand that was much lower than that of other Western countries, the United States first said that it would not evacuate American civilians or their families. Only "dozens" of Americans had expressed a desire to leave, according to Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken on Monday. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US begins evacuation of American citizens from war-torn Sudan

Egypt's foreign ministry said on Monday (April 24) that the administrative attache at its embassy in Sudan was killed amid fighting between rival military factions in Khartoum. In a statement, the foreign ministry said Muhammad El Gharrawi was killed as he was driving to the embassy to follow up on the procedures of the evacuations of the Egyptians stranded in Sudan. Taking to Twitter, foreign ministry spokesperson Ahmed Abu Zeid condoled El Gharrawi's death.&nbsp;

"The deceased (Muhammad El Gharrawi) was martyred on his way to the embassy headquarters to follow up on the tasks of evacuating the Egyptian citizens. May God have mercy on our dear deceased," Zeid tweeted early Tuesday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudans-warring-factions-agree-to-a-72-hour-ceasefire-starting-tuesday-585826">Sudan's warring factions agree to a 72-hour ceasefire starting Tuesday</a>

According to a report by the news agency Reuters, the Sudanese army had earlier stated Egypt's assistant military attache was killed. The army then corrected its statement, saying the administrative attache was killed by fire from the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

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تنعى وزارة الخارجية ببالغ الحزن والأسى فقيد الواجب، الاستاذ محمد الغراوى، مساعد الملحق الإداري بسفارة مصر فى الخرطوم. استشهد الفقيد وهو فى طريقه إلى مقر السفارة لمتابعة مهام إجلاء المواطنين المصريين.رحم الله فقيدنا الغالى واسكنه فسيح جناته..وتحيا مصر دوماً بتضحيات أبنائها الأبرار <a href="https://t.co/n9afelIssV">pic.twitter.com/n9afelIssV</a>
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Two days ago, the Egyptian foreign ministry instructed citizens in Sudan to evacuate the conflict-torn country. A report by Egyptian Streets on Sunday said the ministry instructed citizens outside Sudan's capital Khartoum to head to the nearest specified meeting point in preparation for their evacuation.&nbsp;

For Egyptians in Khartoum, the ministry advised them to stay indoors until the security situation improved to allow for the procedure in line with the general evacuation plan.

Several countries including Italy, Japan, and Greece started evacuating their citizens amid the eruption of violence in Sudan on April 15. On Tuesday, Britain started a large-scale evacuation&nbsp;of its citizens from the North African country.&nbsp;

"The government has begun a large-scale evacuation of British passport holders from&nbsp;Sudan&nbsp;on RAF flights," Prime Minister Rishi Sunak tweeted.&nbsp;

According to agencies of the United Nations, over 400 people have been killed and more than 3,700 wounded so far. And more than 4,000 people have fled Sudan in foreign-organised evacuations.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-how-foreign-countries-are-evacuating-their-citizens-from-conflict-hit-sudan-585507">Explained: How foreign countries are evacuating their citizens from conflict-hit Sudan</a>

The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and RSF agreed to a 72-hour ceasefire starting Tuesday. The SAF said that the United States and Saudi Arabia mediated the truce.

The RSF confirmed that it agreed to the ceasefire to facilitate humanitarian efforts. "We affirm our commitment to a complete ceasefire during the truce period", the RSF said.&nbsp;

"This ceasefire aims to establish humanitarian corridors, allowing citizens and residents to access essential resources, healthcare, and safe zones, while also evacuating diplomatic missions," it tweeted. &nbsp;

The SAF, meanwhile, said on Facebook that it would abide by the ceasefire on condition its rivals did so.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Egypt's foreign ministry said on Monday (April 24) that the administrative attache at its embassy in Sudan was killed amid fighting between rival military factions in Khartoum.

Egypt's foreign ministry said on Monday (April 24) that the administrative attache at its embassy in Sudan was killed amid fighting between rival military factions in Khartoum. In a statement, the foreign ministry said Muhammad El Gharrawi was killed as he was driving to the embassy to follow up on the procedures of the evacuations of the Egyptians stranded in Sudan. Taking to Twitter, foreign ministry spokesperson Ahmed Abu Zeid condoled El Gharrawi's death. "The deceased (Muhammad El Gharrawi) was martyred on his way to the embassy headquarters to follow up on the tasks of evacuating the Egyptian citizens. May God have mercy on our dear deceased," Zeid tweeted early Tuesday. ALSO READ | Sudan's warring factions agree to a 72-hour ceasefire starting Tuesday According to a report by the news agency Reuters, the Sudanese army had earlier stated Egypt's assistant military attache was killed. The army then corrected its statement, saying the administrative attache was killed by fire from the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). تنعى وزارة الخارجية ببالغ الحزن والأسى فقيد الواجب، الاستاذ محمد الغراوى، مساعد الملحق الإداري بسفارة مصر فى الخرطوم. استشهد الفقيد وهو فى طريقه إلى مقر السفارة لمتابعة مهام إجلاء المواطنين المصريين.رحم الله فقيدنا الغالى واسكنه فسيح جناته..وتحيا مصر دوماً بتضحيات أبنائها الأبرار pic.twitter.com/n9afelIssV — Egypt MFA Spokesperson (@MfaEgypt) April 24, 2023 × Two days ago, the Egyptian foreign ministry instructed citizens in Sudan to evacuate the conflict-torn country. A report by Egyptian Streets on Sunday said the ministry instructed citizens outside Sudan's capital Khartoum to head to the nearest specified meeting point in preparation for their evacuation. For Egyptians in Khartoum, the ministry advised them to stay indoors until the security situation improved to allow for the procedure in line with the general evacuation plan. Several countries including Italy, Japan, and Greece started evacuating their citizens amid the eruption of violence in Sudan on April 15. On Tuesday, Britain started a large-scale evacuation of its citizens from the North African country. "The government has begun a large-scale evacuation of British passport holders from Sudan on RAF flights," Prime Minister Rishi Sunak tweeted. According to agencies of the United Nations, over 400 people have been killed and more than 3,700 wounded so far. And more than 4,000 people have fled Sudan in foreign-organised evacuations. ALSO READ | Explained: How foreign countries are evacuating their citizens from conflict-hit Sudan The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and RSF agreed to a 72-hour ceasefire starting Tuesday. The SAF said that the United States and Saudi Arabia mediated the truce. The RSF confirmed that it agreed to the ceasefire to facilitate humanitarian efforts. "We affirm our commitment to a complete ceasefire during the truce period", the RSF said. "This ceasefire aims to establish humanitarian corridors, allowing citizens and residents to access essential resources, healthcare, and safe zones, while also evacuating diplomatic missions," it tweeted. The SAF, meanwhile, said on Facebook that it would abide by the ceasefire on condition its rivals did so. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Sudan conflict: Egypt says embassy staff killed; rivals agree to 72-hour ceasfire

Street fighting between the forces of two rival generals eased in parts of Sudan's capital city Khartoum late Friday (April 21), following calls for an end-of-Ramadan ceasefire.

Street fighting between the forces of two rival generals eased in parts of Sudan's capital city Khartoum late Friday (April 21), following calls for an end-of-Ramadan ceasefire. The army announced that it agreed to a ceasefire for three days" to "enable citizens to celebrate Eid al-Fitr and allow the flow of humanitarian services." The conflict in Sudan has been going on since last weekend after two previously allied leaders of Sudan's ruling council began a violent power struggle. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 413 people have been killed and 3,551 wounded in the fighting. Here are the top updates on the unrest: > A report by the news agency Reuters early Saturday said artillery fire continued in Khartoum late Friday but it was less intense than earlier in the day. This was the latest blow to international attempts to end the conflict. > Soldiers and paramilitary fought fierce street battles in densely populated districts of Khartoum, with witnesses reporting blasts near the army headquarters. > The army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces said separately they agreed to a three-day truce to enable citizens to celebrate Eid al-Fitr. However, on Friday evening, the army accused the RSF of violating the truce by indiscriminately bombing the airport and presidential palace. > Many countries including the United States (US), the United Kingdom (UK), Japan and South Korea announced they were making preparations or attempting to remove their personnel from Sudan. > US State Department spokesperson Vedant Patel said that American citizens in Sudan should not expect a US-government coordinated evacuation, adding they should make their arrangements to stay safe. ALSO READ | RSF fighters agree to 72-hour ceasefire for Eid; thousands flee from Sudan to Chad > The State Department also said that one US citizen was killed in Sudan and did not elaborate further, Reuters reported. > As many as 413 people have been killed and 3,551 wounded, since the beginning of the conflict between forces loyal to army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his deputy, Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, who commands the RSF. > However, the actual death toll might be higher with many wounded unable to reach hospitals, a report by the news agency AFP on Saturday said. Analysts warned that the conflict could affect countries across the region. > The International Committee of the Red Cross urged "immediate and unimpeded humanitarian access", saying it was a "legal obligation under international humanitarian law". > The conflict has also caused a shortage in supplies of food and water. The UN humanitarian office said that several Sudanese people are running out of food, water, and power, including in the capital Khartoum. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Sudan unrest: Fighting eases in parts of Khartoum; over 400 killed| Top points

The crisis in Sudan continues to escalate as a new ceasefire attempt between Sudanese troops and paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Khartoum was unsuccessful. The situation has worsened as food provisions are diminishing and there is also a breakdown of essential medical services. News agencies reported that explosions and gunfire resounded in Sudan's capital even on Thursday as fighting entered the sixth day.&nbsp;

Nations trying to evacuate their citizens from the conflict zone lobbied for a 24-hour ceasefire, which was supposed to come into effect at 16:00 GMT and the paramilitary forces had said that they would "fully commit to a complete ceasefire", and so did the army. But it didn't happen as the eyewitnesses in Khartoum said the fighting continued on Wednesday.&nbsp;

As quoted by AFP, Alawya al-Tayeb, 33, on her way out of the city, said, "Life in Khartoum is impossible if this war does not stop. I tried to make children not see the slain bodies on the streets," she said, adding that her youngsters are already suffering from trauma and will need treatment.&nbsp;

A statement released on Wednesday from embassies in Khartoum said that the ongoing violence killed at least 270 civilians in the last five days. The US Embassy wrote in a statement signed by 14 other diplomatic missions that the "toll has been high, with initial estimated civilian deaths of more than 270". It is assumed that the real toll is thought to be far higher with many wounded unable to reach hospitals.&nbsp;

<h2>Egyptian soldiers evacuated</h2>

The Sudanese armed forces stated that the 177 Egyptian soldiers captured by the paramilitary forces were evacuated on four Egyptian military transport planes Wednesday. The statement comes after the Egyptian army had earlier said it was "coordinating efforts with various Sudanese authorities for a safe return of all its soldiers to the country".&nbsp;

Both armies said that the soldiers were captured by RSF forces Saturday in the northern city of Merowe. The Egyptian soldiers were holding joint exercises with the Sudanese military.&nbsp;

News agency AFP detailed the situation noting that evacuation plans have been difficult to carry out as foreign diplomats have been attacked and the UN received reports of sexual violence against aid workers.&nbsp;

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres announced he would meet Thursday with the heads of the African Union, the Arab League and the regional bloc the Intergovernmental Authority on Development, his spokesman told reporters.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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The crisis in Sudan continues to escalate as a new ceasefire attempt between Sudanese troops and paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Khartoum was unsuccessful.

The crisis in Sudan continues to escalate as a new ceasefire attempt between Sudanese troops and paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Khartoum was unsuccessful. The situation has worsened as food provisions are diminishing and there is also a breakdown of essential medical services. News agencies reported that explosions and gunfire resounded in Sudan's capital even on Thursday as fighting entered the sixth day. Nations trying to evacuate their citizens from the conflict zone lobbied for a 24-hour ceasefire, which was supposed to come into effect at 16:00 GMT and the paramilitary forces had said that they would "fully commit to a complete ceasefire", and so did the army. But it didn't happen as the eyewitnesses in Khartoum said the fighting continued on Wednesday. As quoted by AFP, Alawya al-Tayeb, 33, on her way out of the city, said, "Life in Khartoum is impossible if this war does not stop. I tried to make children not see the slain bodies on the streets," she said, adding that her youngsters are already suffering from trauma and will need treatment. A statement released on Wednesday from embassies in Khartoum said that the ongoing violence killed at least 270 civilians in the last five days. The US Embassy wrote in a statement signed by 14 other diplomatic missions that the "toll has been high, with initial estimated civilian deaths of more than 270". It is assumed that the real toll is thought to be far higher with many wounded unable to reach hospitals. Egyptian soldiers evacuated The Sudanese armed forces stated that the 177 Egyptian soldiers captured by the paramilitary forces were evacuated on four Egyptian military transport planes Wednesday. The statement comes after the Egyptian army had earlier said it was "coordinating efforts with various Sudanese authorities for a safe return of all its soldiers to the country". Both armies said that the soldiers were captured by RSF forces Saturday in the northern city of Merowe. The Egyptian soldiers were holding joint exercises with the Sudanese military. News agency AFP detailed the situation noting that evacuation plans have been difficult to carry out as foreign diplomats have been attacked and the UN received reports of sexual violence against aid workers. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres announced he would meet Thursday with the heads of the African Union, the Arab League and the regional bloc the Intergovernmental Authority on Development, his spokesman told reporters. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explosions and gunfire resound in Sudanese capital as situation worsens

Fighting continued in parts of Sudan's capital Khartoum on Tuesday just as a 24-hour ceasefire was set to kick in. Explosions, heavy gunfire and sounds of fighter jets were heard in several areas. There were also reports of gunmen storming the homes of people working for the United Nations and other international organisations. amid conflicting reports of an agreed ceasefire in the country.Sudan's rival commanders have agreed to a 24-hour ceasefire following pressure from US Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

Sudan's capital Khartoum has been engulfed by fighting for days now. A United States diplomatic convoy also came under fire. The attack took place on clearly marked embassy vehicles, on Monday, while preliminary reports suggest that the assailants were from the RSF, Blinken said.

“I made very clear that any attacks threats, dangers posed to our diplomats were totally unacceptable," Blinken warned.

The conflict between Sudan's military leader and his deputy broke out four days ago. The United Nations has termed the situation in Sudan a humanitarian catastrophe, including the near collapse of the health system. Over 200 people have reportedly died in the fighting across the country.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-envoy-attacked-in-sudan-blinken-calls-incident-reckless-issues-warning-583691">US convoy attacked in Sudan, Blinken calls incident ‘reckless’, issues warning</a>

The ceasefire will not extend beyond the agreed 24 hours, Army General Shams El Din Kabbashi, a member of Sudan's ruling military council, said on al Arabiya TV. "We have accepted this for the duration of 24 hours only because of the severe humanitarian situation the residents of Khartoum are experiencing where movement is difficult, hospitals and other services like electricity and water are scarce," Kabbashi said on Al Arabiya TV.

The station aired live footage of explosions and plumes of thick black smoke rising on the Khartoum skyline. Sounds of gunfire could also be heard in the final hour before the ceasefire deadline.

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A newsreader told viewers in the video: "These images are coming to us specifically from the vicinity of the Army's General Command in the Sudanese capital Khartoum. Dear viewers, we can now listen to the sound of gunfire and the use of heavy artillery."

However, closer to the ceasefire deadline, fighting tailed off. The ceasefire is likely to bring relief to people in the capital and across the country.&nbsp;

Deadly violence broke out Saturday between the forces of two generals following a weeks-long power struggle. Army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his deputy, Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, had seized power in a 2021 coup. Daglo commands the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

(With inputs from agencies)

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Fighting continued in parts of Sudan's capital Khartoum on Tuesday just as a 24-hour ceasefire was set to kick in. Explosions, heavy gunfire and sounds of fighter jets were heard in several areas.

Fighting continued in parts of Sudan's capital Khartoum on Tuesday just as a 24-hour ceasefire was set to kick in. Explosions, heavy gunfire and sounds of fighter jets were heard in several areas. There were also reports of gunmen storming the homes of people working for the United Nations and other international organisations. amid conflicting reports of an agreed ceasefire in the country.Sudan's rival commanders have agreed to a 24-hour ceasefire following pressure from US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Sudan's capital Khartoum has been engulfed by fighting for days now. A United States diplomatic convoy also came under fire. The attack took place on clearly marked embassy vehicles, on Monday, while preliminary reports suggest that the assailants were from the RSF, Blinken said. “I made very clear that any attacks threats, dangers posed to our diplomats were totally unacceptable," Blinken warned. The conflict between Sudan's military leader and his deputy broke out four days ago. The United Nations has termed the situation in Sudan a humanitarian catastrophe, including the near collapse of the health system. Over 200 people have reportedly died in the fighting across the country. Also Read | US convoy attacked in Sudan, Blinken calls incident ‘reckless’, issues warning The ceasefire will not extend beyond the agreed 24 hours, Army General Shams El Din Kabbashi, a member of Sudan's ruling military council, said on al Arabiya TV. "We have accepted this for the duration of 24 hours only because of the severe humanitarian situation the residents of Khartoum are experiencing where movement is difficult, hospitals and other services like electricity and water are scarce," Kabbashi said on Al Arabiya TV. The station aired live footage of explosions and plumes of thick black smoke rising on the Khartoum skyline. Sounds of gunfire could also be heard in the final hour before the ceasefire deadline. × A newsreader told viewers in the video: "These images are coming to us specifically from the vicinity of the Army's General Command in the Sudanese capital Khartoum. Dear viewers, we can now listen to the sound of gunfire and the use of heavy artillery." However, closer to the ceasefire deadline, fighting tailed off. The ceasefire is likely to bring relief to people in the capital and across the country. Deadly violence broke out Saturday between the forces of two generals following a weeks-long power struggle. Army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his deputy, Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, had seized power in a 2021 coup. Daglo commands the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Fighting rages in Sudan minutes after ceasefire was due to take effect, gunmen storm homes of UN staff

More than 200 people have died and 1,800 have been injured due to the unrest in Sudan. A deadly power struggle has derailed a shift to civilian rule in Sudan and has led to calls from the United Nations (UN) to stop fighting and raised fears of a wider conflict. In the latest news, the European Union ambassador to Sudan was attacked in his home in the capital Khartoum. French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday (April 17) defended his government's pension reforms by suggesting that these changes were needed to guarantee everyone's freedom. And the US on Monday arrested two men of Chinese descent for allegedly setting up a Chinese "police station" in New York. The men were identified as Harry Lu Jianwang, 61, and Chen Jinping, 59.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-180-dead-in-sudan-violence-as-army-chief-declares-a-powerful-paramilitary-force-rebels-583458">Sudan unrest claims 200 lives, EU envoy 'assaulted' in capital Khartoum</a>

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After&nbsp;the paramilitary force battling Sudanese army was branded a rebel group by country's army chief on Monday, it has emerged that the European Union ambassador to Sudan was attacked in his home in capital Khartoum.

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macron-defends-pension-reforms-as-opposition-asks-people-to-bang-pots-and-pans-583489">Macron defends pension reforms as opposition asks people to bang pots and pans</a>

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French President Emmanuel Macron said on Monday that he is aware of people's anger over raising the retirement age of 62 to 64. Macron, however, justified last Saturday's&nbsp;enactment of the new pension law&nbsp; by suggesting that these changes were needed to guarantee everyone's freedom.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-arrested-after-fbi-discloses-chinas-secret-police-stations-in-new-york-583500">Two arrested after FBI discloses China's secret 'police stations' in New York</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/04/18/346014-untitled-design-10.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

The United States on Monday arrested two men of Chinese descent for allegedly&nbsp;setting up a Chinese "police station" in New York. Dozens of Chinese security officials were charged over a campaign to monitor and harass Chinese dissidents living in the United States.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lavrov-says-russia-is-interested-in-ending-ukraine-conflict-as-soon-as-possible-583528">Lavrov says Russia is 'interested' in ending Ukraine conflict 'as soon as possible'</a>

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Moscow is "interested" to end the ongoing war with Ukraine "as soon as possible", Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Monday (April 17) during a news conference with Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira in Brasilia.&nbsp;

 
Watch | WTO charges India with violating trade rules

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More than 200 people have died and 1,800 have been injured due to the unrest in Sudan. A deadly power struggle has derailed a shift to civilian rule in Sudan and has led to calls from the United Nations (UN) to stop fighting and raised fears of a wider conflict.

More than 200 people have died and 1,800 have been injured due to the unrest in Sudan. A deadly power struggle has derailed a shift to civilian rule in Sudan and has led to calls from the United Nations (UN) to stop fighting and raised fears of a wider conflict. In the latest news, the European Union ambassador to Sudan was attacked in his home in the capital Khartoum. French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday (April 17) defended his government's pension reforms by suggesting that these changes were needed to guarantee everyone's freedom. And the US on Monday arrested two men of Chinese descent for allegedly setting up a Chinese "police station" in New York. The men were identified as Harry Lu Jianwang, 61, and Chen Jinping, 59. Click on the headlines to read more Sudan unrest claims 200 lives, EU envoy 'assaulted' in capital Khartoum After the paramilitary force battling Sudanese army was branded a rebel group by country's army chief on Monday, it has emerged that the European Union ambassador to Sudan was attacked in his home in capital Khartoum. Macron defends pension reforms as opposition asks people to bang pots and pans French President Emmanuel Macron said on Monday that he is aware of people's anger over raising the retirement age of 62 to 64. Macron, however, justified last Saturday's enactment of the new pension law by suggesting that these changes were needed to guarantee everyone's freedom. Two arrested after FBI discloses China's secret 'police stations' in New York The United States on Monday arrested two men of Chinese descent for allegedly setting up a Chinese "police station" in New York. Dozens of Chinese security officials were charged over a campaign to monitor and harass Chinese dissidents living in the United States. Lavrov says Russia is 'interested' in ending Ukraine conflict 'as soon as possible' Moscow is "interested" to end the ongoing war with Ukraine "as soon as possible", Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Monday (April 17) during a news conference with Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira in Brasilia. Watch | WTO charges India with violating trade rules × WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Morning brief: Sudan unrest claims over 200 lives, French Prez Macron defends pension reforms, & more

After&nbsp;the paramilitary force battling Sudanese army was branded a rebel group by the African country's army chief on Monday, it has emerged that the European Union ambassador to Sudan was attacked in his home in capital Khartoum.

According to the data by the United Nations, more than 200 people have been killed and more than 1,800 injured since the fighting erupted.

 
The deadly power struggle has derailed a shift to civilian rule in Sudan and has led to calls from the United Nations to stop fighting and raised fears of a wider conflict.&nbsp;

"A few hours ago, the EU Ambassador in Sudan was assaulted in his own residency," EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell wrote on Twitter.

"Security of diplomatic premises and staff is a primary responsibility of Sudanese authorities and an obligation under international law," he added.

The European Union's ambassador to Sudan is veteran Irish diplomat Aidan O'Hara. EU spokeswoman Nabila Massrali told AFP that he was "OK" following the assault.

"The security of the staff is our priority," she said. "The EU delegation has not been evacuated. Security measures are being assessed."

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The conflict between the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has killed at least 97 civilians and 45 soldiers, according to a medics' group. A UN envoy has put the death toll at over 200.&nbsp;UN's special representative to the country, Volker Perthes, told journalists via video link that another 1,800 were injured in three days of fighting between rival factions in Sudan.

Both sides claimed on Monday that they had made gains as smoke hung over the capital Khartoum. People reported that airstrikes, artillery fire and shooting have cut off basic services and damaged hospitals in a city that is unused to violence.

Videos and photos from the international airport being aired on television showed a raging fire with plumes of black smoke. Satellite images showed several planes damaged by the strikes.

The Khartoum violence and in nearby cities of Omdurman and Bahri since Saturday is the worst in decades. There is risk of Sudan being torn between two military factions that once shared power during a rocky political transition.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-whats-happening-in-sudan-what-caused-the-clashes-583043">Explained: What's happening in Sudan? What caused the army-paramilitary clashes?</a>

Army Chief General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan currently heads a ruling council installed after a 2021 coup and the 2019 ousting of veteran leader Omar Bashir during mass protests. RSF leader General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, is his deputy.

An internationally backed transition plan mandated that the RSF will merge with the army. But Burhan on Monday ordered the group to be dissolved as the two sides exchanged bitter accusations.

Burhan told Sky News that he was secure in a presidential guesthouse within the defence ministry compound and that his goal was to defeat the RSF. However, he did not rule out some form of negotiation.

"Every war ends at the negotiation table even if the opponent is defeated", Burhan said.

Meanwhile, RSF leader Hemedti, who currently is in an undisclosed location, called for the international community to take action against what he called Burhan's crimes. In a tweet, he called the army chief "a radical Islamist who is bombing civilians from the air".

If the violence continues to escalate, it could destabilise a volatile region and play into competition for influence there between Russia and the United States, among other regional powers.&nbsp;

Egypt has been wary of political change in Khartoum and is the biggest backer of Sudan's armed forces. Hemedti has cultivated ties with several foreign powers including the United Arab Emirates and Russia.

The situation didn't seem to be calming down on Monday as neither side was willing to back down. While the army is larger and has air power, the RSF is widely deployed inside neighbourhoods of Khartoum and other cities, making it hard for either side to secure a quick victory.

(With inputs from agencies)

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After the paramilitary force battling Sudanese army was branded a rebel group by the African country's army chief on Monday, it has emerged that the European Union ambassador to Sudan was attacked in his home in capital Khartoum.

After the paramilitary force battling Sudanese army was branded a rebel group by the African country's army chief on Monday, it has emerged that the European Union ambassador to Sudan was attacked in his home in capital Khartoum. According to the data by the United Nations, more than 200 people have been killed and more than 1,800 injured since the fighting erupted. The deadly power struggle has derailed a shift to civilian rule in Sudan and has led to calls from the United Nations to stop fighting and raised fears of a wider conflict. "A few hours ago, the EU Ambassador in Sudan was assaulted in his own residency," EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell wrote on Twitter. "Security of diplomatic premises and staff is a primary responsibility of Sudanese authorities and an obligation under international law," he added. The European Union's ambassador to Sudan is veteran Irish diplomat Aidan O'Hara. EU spokeswoman Nabila Massrali told AFP that he was "OK" following the assault. "The security of the staff is our priority," she said. "The EU delegation has not been evacuated. Security measures are being assessed." × The conflict between the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has killed at least 97 civilians and 45 soldiers, according to a medics' group. A UN envoy has put the death toll at over 200. UN's special representative to the country, Volker Perthes, told journalists via video link that another 1,800 were injured in three days of fighting between rival factions in Sudan. Both sides claimed on Monday that they had made gains as smoke hung over the capital Khartoum. People reported that airstrikes, artillery fire and shooting have cut off basic services and damaged hospitals in a city that is unused to violence. Videos and photos from the international airport being aired on television showed a raging fire with plumes of black smoke. Satellite images showed several planes damaged by the strikes. The Khartoum violence and in nearby cities of Omdurman and Bahri since Saturday is the worst in decades. There is risk of Sudan being torn between two military factions that once shared power during a rocky political transition. Also Read | Explained: What's happening in Sudan? What caused the army-paramilitary clashes? Army Chief General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan currently heads a ruling council installed after a 2021 coup and the 2019 ousting of veteran leader Omar Bashir during mass protests. RSF leader General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, is his deputy. An internationally backed transition plan mandated that the RSF will merge with the army. But Burhan on Monday ordered the group to be dissolved as the two sides exchanged bitter accusations. Burhan told Sky News that he was secure in a presidential guesthouse within the defence ministry compound and that his goal was to defeat the RSF. However, he did not rule out some form of negotiation. "Every war ends at the negotiation table even if the opponent is defeated", Burhan said. Meanwhile, RSF leader Hemedti, who currently is in an undisclosed location, called for the international community to take action against what he called Burhan's crimes. In a tweet, he called the army chief "a radical Islamist who is bombing civilians from the air". If the violence continues to escalate, it could destabilise a volatile region and play into competition for influence there between Russia and the United States, among other regional powers. Egypt has been wary of political change in Khartoum and is the biggest backer of Sudan's armed forces. Hemedti has cultivated ties with several foreign powers including the United Arab Emirates and Russia. The situation didn't seem to be calming down on Monday as neither side was willing to back down. While the army is larger and has air power, the RSF is widely deployed inside neighbourhoods of Khartoum and other cities, making it hard for either side to secure a quick victory. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Sudan unrest claims 200 lives, EU envoy 'assaulted' in capital Khartoum

Sudan's main opposition alliance will nominate Abdalla Hamdok, an economist who has served in international institutions, to be prime minister in the country's transitional government, opposition sources said on Thursday.

The nomination is the first step towards the creation of a transitional government that will prepare for free elections after the overthrow of veteran autocratic president Omar al-Bashir in April following months of unrest.

The development came after protracted negotiations between the Transitional Military Council (TMC), which has ruled Sudan since April, and the opposition alliance known as the Forces of Freedom and Change (FFC).

A planned new sovereign council, comprised of five members each from the two sides plus a civilian agreed by both, will name the new premier based on the nomination by the FFC, according to a constitutional declaration agreed on earlier this month.

The sovereign council will be formed on Sunday, according to the agreed schedule, after which the Transitional Military Council will be dissolved, with the prime minister to be appointed on Tuesday next week.

Hamdok, long rumoured as the FFC nominee, was last working as Deputy Executive Secretary of the UN Economic Commission for Africa, and has held positions at the International Labor Organization and the African Development Bank.

He served as an official in Sudan's Ministry of Finance in the 1980s, before the military coup that put Bashir in power.

Sudanese economist Amin Hassan Sayed Ahmed said Hamdok had good connections in the African Union and United Nations and might help get Sudan removed from the US list of state sponsors of terrorism, which has impeded Khartoum's access to IMF and World Bank funding.

"I think he knows how to get in through the system, much more than anyone else who tried before," said Sayed Ahmed.

"We wish Dr. Abdalla Hamdok success in one of the hardest periods in the history of our country and people, a period that the revolutionary Sudanese people are looking forward to and observing with hopefulness," the Sudanese Professionals Association, the group that spearheaded the protest movement and is part of the FFC, said in a statement.

The opposition alliance will also nominate former judge and human rights activist Mohamed Alhafiz Mahmoud as public prosecutor, opposition sources said, and Abdelqadir Mohamed Ahmed as head of the judiciary. Their appointment would also be confirmed by the sovereign council after its formation.

The FFC and Transitional Military Council are expected to put final signatures on the constitutional declaration on Saturday at a ceremony in Khartoum with foreign dignitaries attending.

Some caution that it is still too early to tell how events will unfold in the lengthy, three-year, three-month transition period agreed to prepare for elections after three decades of repressive rule under Bashir. 
&nbsp;

Sudan's main opposition alliance will nominate Abdalla Hamdok, an economist who has served in international institutions, to be prime minister in the country's transitional government, opposition sources said on Thursday.

Sudan's main opposition alliance will nominate Abdalla Hamdok, an economist who has served in international institutions, to be prime minister in the country's transitional government, opposition sources said on Thursday. The nomination is the first step towards the creation of a transitional government that will prepare for free elections after the overthrow of veteran autocratic president Omar al-Bashir in April following months of unrest. The development came after protracted negotiations between the Transitional Military Council (TMC), which has ruled Sudan since April, and the opposition alliance known as the Forces of Freedom and Change (FFC). A planned new sovereign council, comprised of five members each from the two sides plus a civilian agreed by both, will name the new premier based on the nomination by the FFC, according to a constitutional declaration agreed on earlier this month. The sovereign council will be formed on Sunday, according to the agreed schedule, after which the Transitional Military Council will be dissolved, with the prime minister to be appointed on Tuesday next week. Hamdok, long rumoured as the FFC nominee, was last working as Deputy Executive Secretary of the UN Economic Commission for Africa, and has held positions at the International Labor Organization and the African Development Bank. He served as an official in Sudan's Ministry of Finance in the 1980s, before the military coup that put Bashir in power. Sudanese economist Amin Hassan Sayed Ahmed said Hamdok had good connections in the African Union and United Nations and might help get Sudan removed from the US list of state sponsors of terrorism, which has impeded Khartoum's access to IMF and World Bank funding. "I think he knows how to get in through the system, much more than anyone else who tried before," said Sayed Ahmed. "We wish Dr. Abdalla Hamdok success in one of the hardest periods in the history of our country and people, a period that the revolutionary Sudanese people are looking forward to and observing with hopefulness," the Sudanese Professionals Association, the group that spearheaded the protest movement and is part of the FFC, said in a statement. The opposition alliance will also nominate former judge and human rights activist Mohamed Alhafiz Mahmoud as public prosecutor, opposition sources said, and Abdelqadir Mohamed Ahmed as head of the judiciary. Their appointment would also be confirmed by the sovereign council after its formation. The FFC and Transitional Military Council are expected to put final signatures on the constitutional declaration on Saturday at a ceremony in Khartoum with foreign dignitaries attending. Some caution that it is still too early to tell how events will unfold in the lengthy, three-year, three-month transition period agreed to prepare for elections after three decades of repressive rule under Bashir.

Sudan opposition to nominate economist Abdalla Hamdok as Prime Minister: Report

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WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - June 23rd, 2019

Sudanese security forces have arrested two prominent rebels and an opposition leader, a day after they met the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ethiopia-attempts-to-mediate-sudan-crisis-after-bloodshed-225425">Ethiopian premier during his reconciliation mission</a> to Khartoum, their aides said Saturday.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, who has emerged as a key regional leader, met representatives of both sides on Friday in a bid to revive talks between Sudan's ruling generals and protest leaders after a deadly crackdown left dozens of people dead in the capital this week.

Among the protest movement delegates he met were opposition politician Mohamed Esmat and a leader of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-says-important-to-bring-about-order-in-sudan-224994">rebel Sudan People's Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N)</a>, Ismail Jalab.

Sudanese security forces later arrested both men without giving any reason, their aides told AFP on Saturday.

Esmat was arrested on Friday soon after his meeting with Abiy.&nbsp;

Jalab was arrested from his residence early on Saturday.

"A group of armed men came in vehicles at 3:00 am (1:00 GMT) and took away Ismail Jalab .. without giving any reason," Jalab aide Rashid Anwar told AFP, adding that SPLM-N spokesman Mubarak Ardol was also detained.

"We don't know where they are being held," he added.

Esmat and Jalab are both leading members of the Alliance for Freedom and Change, which brings together opposition parties and rebel groups with the organisers of the mass protests which have gripped Sudan since December last year.

The arrest of Jalab comes just days after the SPLM-N's deputy leader, Yasir Arman, was seized from his home in Khartoum.

The rebel number two had only returned to Khartoum from exile late last month.

The SPLM-N has led uprisings among non-Arab ethnic minorities in Blue Nile and South Kordofan states since 2011, that Sudan's military rulers had vowed to end peacefully after their overthrow of longtime president Omar al-Bashir in April.

Sudanese security forces have arrested two prominent rebels and an opposition leader, a day after they met the Ethiopian premier during his reconciliation mission to Khartoum, their aides said Saturday.

Sudanese security forces have arrested two prominent rebels and an opposition leader, a day after they met the Ethiopian premier during his reconciliation mission to Khartoum, their aides said Saturday. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, who has emerged as a key regional leader, met representatives of both sides on Friday in a bid to revive talks between Sudan's ruling generals and protest leaders after a deadly crackdown left dozens of people dead in the capital this week. Among the protest movement delegates he met were opposition politician Mohamed Esmat and a leader of the rebel Sudan People's Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N), Ismail Jalab. Sudanese security forces later arrested both men without giving any reason, their aides told AFP on Saturday. Esmat was arrested on Friday soon after his meeting with Abiy. Jalab was arrested from his residence early on Saturday. "A group of armed men came in vehicles at 3:00 am (1:00 GMT) and took away Ismail Jalab .. without giving any reason," Jalab aide Rashid Anwar told AFP, adding that SPLM-N spokesman Mubarak Ardol was also detained. "We don't know where they are being held," he added. Esmat and Jalab are both leading members of the Alliance for Freedom and Change, which brings together opposition parties and rebel groups with the organisers of the mass protests which have gripped Sudan since December last year. The arrest of Jalab comes just days after the SPLM-N's deputy leader, Yasir Arman, was seized from his home in Khartoum. The rebel number two had only returned to Khartoum from exile late last month. The SPLM-N has led uprisings among non-Arab ethnic minorities in Blue Nile and South Kordofan states since 2011, that Sudan's military rulers had vowed to end peacefully after their overthrow of longtime president Omar al-Bashir in April.

Sudan forces arrest protest leaders who met Ethiopia PM Abiy Ahmed

Sudan's military rulers offered to resume talks with opposition groups on Wednesday, two days after security forces mounted a deadly raid on a protest camp, but the opposition rejected the invitation.

Medics linked to the opposition said the death toll from Monday's operation and subsequent unrest had risen to 101 and that it was expected to increase further. No official casualty figures have been released.

The raid, which followed weeks of wrangling between the ruling military council and opposition groups over who should lead Sudan's transition to democracy, marked the worst outbreak of violence since the army ousted President Omar al-Bashir in April after months of protests against his rule.

The Transitional Military Council cancelled all agreements it had reached with the opposition immediately after the raid but on Wednesday it rowed back amid mounting international criticism of the violence.

"We in the military council extend our hand for negotiations without shackles except the interests of the homeland," its head, Lieutenant General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, said on state TV.

But a Sudanese alliance of protesters and opposition groups rejected the offer, saying the military could not be trusted.

"Today the council invited us to dialogue and at the same time it is imposing fear on citizens in the streets," Madani Abbas Madani, a leader of the Declaration of Freedom and Change Forces (DFCF), told.

Madani said Burhan's invitation had come before the arrest of one of the opposition alliance members, Yasir Arman, deputy head of the Sudan People's Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N) rebel group.

Gunfire, street blockades

Opposition medics said that 40 dead bodies had been pulled out of the Nile on Tuesday and taken to an unknown destination by pick-up trucks belonging to the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces. That brings the total death toll from the recent violence to 101, the medics said. Reuters was not immediately able to verify the report.

A military council spokesman could not immediately be reached for comment, but a source said a statement was to be issued soon.

The mood in the capital Khartoum remained tense on Wednesday, with demonstrators blocking streets in several districts. Gunfire rang out in the distance.

Most shops were shuttered on what would usually have been a bustling Muslim Eid al-Fitr holiday. Minor protests erupted outside mosques after Eid prayers but there were no reports of significant clashes with security forces.

The deputy head of the military council, General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, commonly known as Hemedti, said in a televised speech that it had launched "an urgent and transparent investigation" into the recent violence.

"Any person who crossed boundaries has to be punished," he added.

The military has denied trying to clear the sit-in protest outside the defence ministry on Monday. Its spokesman said forces moved in to deal with disruptive groups nearby and the violence spread from there.

Saudi Arabia, which has close ties to Sudan's military council, said on Wednesday it was watching developments with great concern and called for more dialogue.

US National Security Adviser John Bolton said in a Twitter post that Monday's violence by Sudan's security forces was "abhorrent" and demanded that the military council facilitate moves towards a civilian-led government.

The main protest organizer, the Sudanese Professionals Association, has called for an international committee to investigate Monday's deaths in what it branded a "massacre".

Several airlines have cancelled flights to Khartoum, including Bahrain's Gulf Air, flydubai and EgyptAir.

Sudan has been rocked by unrest since December, when anger over rising bread prices and cash shortages broke into sustained protests against Bashir that culminated in the military removing him after three decades in office.

Sudan's military rulers offered to resume talks with opposition groups on Wednesday, two days after security forces mounted a deadly raid on a protest camp, but the opposition rejected the invitation.

Sudan's military rulers offered to resume talks with opposition groups on Wednesday, two days after security forces mounted a deadly raid on a protest camp, but the opposition rejected the invitation. Medics linked to the opposition said the death toll from Monday's operation and subsequent unrest had risen to 101 and that it was expected to increase further. No official casualty figures have been released. The raid, which followed weeks of wrangling between the ruling military council and opposition groups over who should lead Sudan's transition to democracy, marked the worst outbreak of violence since the army ousted President Omar al-Bashir in April after months of protests against his rule. The Transitional Military Council cancelled all agreements it had reached with the opposition immediately after the raid but on Wednesday it rowed back amid mounting international criticism of the violence. "We in the military council extend our hand for negotiations without shackles except the interests of the homeland," its head, Lieutenant General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, said on state TV. But a Sudanese alliance of protesters and opposition groups rejected the offer, saying the military could not be trusted. "Today the council invited us to dialogue and at the same time it is imposing fear on citizens in the streets," Madani Abbas Madani, a leader of the Declaration of Freedom and Change Forces (DFCF), told. Madani said Burhan's invitation had come before the arrest of one of the opposition alliance members, Yasir Arman, deputy head of the Sudan People's Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N) rebel group. Gunfire, street blockades Opposition medics said that 40 dead bodies had been pulled out of the Nile on Tuesday and taken to an unknown destination by pick-up trucks belonging to the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces. That brings the total death toll from the recent violence to 101, the medics said. Reuters was not immediately able to verify the report. A military council spokesman could not immediately be reached for comment, but a source said a statement was to be issued soon. The mood in the capital Khartoum remained tense on Wednesday, with demonstrators blocking streets in several districts. Gunfire rang out in the distance. Most shops were shuttered on what would usually have been a bustling Muslim Eid al-Fitr holiday. Minor protests erupted outside mosques after Eid prayers but there were no reports of significant clashes with security forces. The deputy head of the military council, General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, commonly known as Hemedti, said in a televised speech that it had launched "an urgent and transparent investigation" into the recent violence. "Any person who crossed boundaries has to be punished," he added. The military has denied trying to clear the sit-in protest outside the defence ministry on Monday. Its spokesman said forces moved in to deal with disruptive groups nearby and the violence spread from there. Saudi Arabia, which has close ties to Sudan's military council, said on Wednesday it was watching developments with great concern and called for more dialogue. US National Security Adviser John Bolton said in a Twitter post that Monday's violence by Sudan's security forces was "abhorrent" and demanded that the military council facilitate moves towards a civilian-led government. The main protest organizer, the Sudanese Professionals Association, has called for an international committee to investigate Monday's deaths in what it branded a "massacre". Several airlines have cancelled flights to Khartoum, including Bahrain's Gulf Air, flydubai and EgyptAir. Sudan has been rocked by unrest since December, when anger over rising bread prices and cash shortages broke into sustained protests against Bashir that culminated in the military removing him after three decades in office.

Sudan opposition rejects army's offer of talks, death toll hits 101

This segment of WION brings to you top stories of the morning from across the globe. Watch this video to get updated with the latest information.

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning, May 16th 2019

Sudanese protesters on Sunday demanded the country's military rulers "immediately" hand power over to a civilian government that should then bring <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudan-coup-new-military-ruler-vows-to-uproot-deposed-presidents-regime-210205">ousted leader Omar al-Bashir</a> to justice.

Thousands remained encamped outside Khartoum's army headquarters to keep up pressure on a military council that took power after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudan-military-rulers-brief-us-envoy-state-media-210306">ousting Bashir</a> on Thursday.

The organisation that spearheaded the protests against Bashir, the Sudanese Professionals Association, called on the council "to immediately transfer power to a civilian government".

The SPA also demanded the next "transitional government and the armed forces bring Bashir and all the chiefs of the National Intelligence and Security Service (NISS)... to justice".

"The Sudanese Professionals Association calls on its supporters to continue with the sit-in until the revolution achieves its demands," it added.

The military council later held a press conference at which its spokesman did not respond to the protesters' latest demands. Instead it announced the appointment of new intelligence chief.

Earlier the military council met with political parties and urged them to agree on an "independent figure" to be prime minister, an AFP correspondent present at the meeting said.

"We want to set up a civilian state based on freedom, justice and democracy," a council member, Lieutenant General Yasser al-Ata, told several political parties, urging them to agree on the figures to sit in civilian government.

The protesters have insisted civilian representatives must join the military council.

A 10-member delegation representing the protesters delivered their demands during talks with the council late Saturday, according to a statement by the Alliance for Freedom and Change umbrella group spearheading the rallies.

The foreign ministry urged the international community to back the military council "to achieve the Sudanese goal of democratic transition".

It said council chief General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan was "committed to having a complete civilian government and the role of the council will be to maintain the sovereignty of the country".

Talks between protest leaders and Sudan's new rulers were followed Sunday by a meeting between Washington's top envoy to Khartoum, Steven Koutsis, and the military council's deputy.

Mohammad Hamdan Daglo, widely known as Himeidti, told Koutsis "about the measures taken by the military council to preserve the security and stability of the country," the official SUNA news agency reported.

Himeidti is a field commander for the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) counter-insurgency unit, which rights groups have accused of abuses in the war-torn Darfur region.

Burhan talks the talk

On Saturday, the military council's new chief General Burhan vowed to dismantle Bashir's regime, lifting a night-time curfew with immediate effect.

He also pledged that individuals implicated in killing protesters would face justice and that protesters detained under a state of emergency imposed by Bashir during his final weeks in power would be freed.

Burhan took the oath of office on Friday after his predecessor General Awad Ibn Ouf stepped down little more than 24 hours after Bashir's ouster.

The United States, Britain and Norway said Sunday it was time for Sudan's military rulers and other parties to hold talks over the country's transition to civilian rule.

"This must be done credibly and swiftly, with protest leaders, political opposition, civil society organisations, and all relevant elements of society, including women," the embassies of the three countries said in a statement.

Tens of thousands of people have massed non-stop outside the army headquarters since April 6, initially to urge the military to back their demand that Bashir be removed.

Burhan comes with less baggage from Bashir's deeply unpopular rule than Ibn Ouf, a former defence minister and longtime close aide of the deposed president.

But while celebrating the fall of both men in quick succession, protesters remain cautious.

Protest leaders say their demands include restructuring the country's feared NISS agency, whose chief Salih Ghosh resigned on Saturday.

On Sunday night, the council announced the appointment of Lieutenant General Abu Baker Mustafa as the new head of NISS in a televised announcement in which it also announced the sacking of Khartoum's envoy to Washington.

Gulf states voice support

The newly formed 10-member transitional council contains several faces from Bashir's regime.

On Saturday evening, the new military ruler named NISS deputy head Jalaluddin Sheikh to the council, with Himeidti as its deputy's head.

"Himeidti was part of the crimes that happened previously, but at least now he is on the side of the people," said Mohamed, a protester outside the army headquarters who gave only his first name for security reasons.

The military council, meanwhile, said it had sacked Khartoum's top envoy to Washington Mohamed Atta.

Key regional power brokers Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have voiced support for the transitional council.

Burhan's nomination "reflects the ambitions of the brotherly people of Sudan for security, stability and development," UAE state news agency WAM said.

Saudi Arabia has promised an aid package, the Saudi Press Agency reported Saturday.

Sudan is part of a UAE and Saudi-led military coalition fighting Iran-backed Huthi rebels in Yemen.

Sudanese protesters on Sunday demanded the country's military rulers "immediately" hand power over to a civilian government that should then bring ousted leader Omar al-Bashir to justice.

Sudanese protesters on Sunday demanded the country's military rulers "immediately" hand power over to a civilian government that should then bring ousted leader Omar al-Bashir to justice. Thousands remained encamped outside Khartoum's army headquarters to keep up pressure on a military council that took power after ousting Bashir on Thursday. The organisation that spearheaded the protests against Bashir, the Sudanese Professionals Association, called on the council "to immediately transfer power to a civilian government". The SPA also demanded the next "transitional government and the armed forces bring Bashir and all the chiefs of the National Intelligence and Security Service (NISS)... to justice". "The Sudanese Professionals Association calls on its supporters to continue with the sit-in until the revolution achieves its demands," it added. The military council later held a press conference at which its spokesman did not respond to the protesters' latest demands. Instead it announced the appointment of new intelligence chief. Earlier the military council met with political parties and urged them to agree on an "independent figure" to be prime minister, an AFP correspondent present at the meeting said. "We want to set up a civilian state based on freedom, justice and democracy," a council member, Lieutenant General Yasser al-Ata, told several political parties, urging them to agree on the figures to sit in civilian government. The protesters have insisted civilian representatives must join the military council. A 10-member delegation representing the protesters delivered their demands during talks with the council late Saturday, according to a statement by the Alliance for Freedom and Change umbrella group spearheading the rallies. The foreign ministry urged the international community to back the military council "to achieve the Sudanese goal of democratic transition". It said council chief General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan was "committed to having a complete civilian government and the role of the council will be to maintain the sovereignty of the country". Talks between protest leaders and Sudan's new rulers were followed Sunday by a meeting between Washington's top envoy to Khartoum, Steven Koutsis, and the military council's deputy. Mohammad Hamdan Daglo, widely known as Himeidti, told Koutsis "about the measures taken by the military council to preserve the security and stability of the country," the official SUNA news agency reported. Himeidti is a field commander for the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) counter-insurgency unit, which rights groups have accused of abuses in the war-torn Darfur region. Burhan talks the talk On Saturday, the military council's new chief General Burhan vowed to dismantle Bashir's regime, lifting a night-time curfew with immediate effect. He also pledged that individuals implicated in killing protesters would face justice and that protesters detained under a state of emergency imposed by Bashir during his final weeks in power would be freed. Burhan took the oath of office on Friday after his predecessor General Awad Ibn Ouf stepped down little more than 24 hours after Bashir's ouster. The United States, Britain and Norway said Sunday it was time for Sudan's military rulers and other parties to hold talks over the country's transition to civilian rule. "This must be done credibly and swiftly, with protest leaders, political opposition, civil society organisations, and all relevant elements of society, including women," the embassies of the three countries said in a statement. Tens of thousands of people have massed non-stop outside the army headquarters since April 6, initially to urge the military to back their demand that Bashir be removed. Burhan comes with less baggage from Bashir's deeply unpopular rule than Ibn Ouf, a former defence minister and longtime close aide of the deposed president. But while celebrating the fall of both men in quick succession, protesters remain cautious. Protest leaders say their demands include restructuring the country's feared NISS agency, whose chief Salih Ghosh resigned on Saturday. On Sunday night, the council announced the appointment of Lieutenant General Abu Baker Mustafa as the new head of NISS in a televised announcement in which it also announced the sacking of Khartoum's envoy to Washington. Gulf states voice support The newly formed 10-member transitional council contains several faces from Bashir's regime. On Saturday evening, the new military ruler named NISS deputy head Jalaluddin Sheikh to the council, with Himeidti as its deputy's head. "Himeidti was part of the crimes that happened previously, but at least now he is on the side of the people," said Mohamed, a protester outside the army headquarters who gave only his first name for security reasons. The military council, meanwhile, said it had sacked Khartoum's top envoy to Washington Mohamed Atta. Key regional power brokers Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have voiced support for the transitional council. Burhan's nomination "reflects the ambitions of the brotherly people of Sudan for security, stability and development," UAE state news agency WAM said. Saudi Arabia has promised an aid package, the Saudi Press Agency reported Saturday. Sudan is part of a UAE and Saudi-led military coalition fighting Iran-backed Huthi rebels in Yemen.

Sudan protesters demand 'immediate' civilian rule to bring ousted leader Omar al-Bashir to justice

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