Sudan Civil War: Türkiye’s Role in Mediation and Regional Stability
Since the civil war erupted in Sudan on April 15, 2023, resulting from a political vacuum and power struggles, Türkiye’s mediation initiative aims to resolve the conflict and stabilize the region. Despite facing challenges, Türkiye’s historical ties, improved relations with the UAE, and cooperation with regional organizations enhance its mediation prospects. Ultimately, Türkiye’s commitment to impartiality and practical measures will be crucial to restoring peace in Sudan.
Sudan has been embroiled in a political and humanitarian crisis since the civil war began on April 15, 2023, between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The power struggle following the fall of Omar al-Bashir’s regime in 2019, coupled with widespread mistrust, led to this catastrophic conflict, escalating its complexity through the involvement of regional and global actors.
In light of this crisis, Türkiye’s mediation initiative aims to foster regional stability and resolve the conflict in Sudan, while simultaneously bolstering Türkiye’s diplomatic engagements in Africa. To fully appreciate this initiative’s potential, it is crucial to evaluate the civil war’s origins and developments.
The civil strife in Sudan can be traced to the political vacuum instigated by al-Bashir’s downfall. The core of the turmoil revolves around the rivalry between the SAF and RSF, particularly regarding the RSF’s integration into the national army. Conflict erupted into open warfare after the RSF attacked military sites in Khartoum on April 15, 2023, catalyzing a widespread crisis across the nation.
This war has plunged Sudan into severe humanitarian and economic crises. Khartoum has suffered extensive infrastructural damage, leading to massive disruptions in essential services, displacing millions. According to the United Nations, more than 8 million people are internally displaced and over 3 million have fled to neighboring nations. Allegations of ethnic cleansing in West Darfur, involving attacks on the Fur population by RSF-aligned militias, have garnered international condemnation.
The conflict’s complexities have been exacerbated by competing regional and global interests. Allegations of UAE support for the RSF intensify SAF’s perception of the UAE as a conflict participant. Concurrently, Russia’s support for the RSF underscores its ambitions for Sudan’s natural resources and military expansion in the region, while neighboring countries confront numerous challenges due to refugee crises and security concerns. Human rights abuses in West Darfur have prompted calls from the United States and the European Union for stronger sanctions against involved parties.
Cease-fire attempts have consistently failed, with temporary truces brokered by the U.S. and Saudi Arabia often being violated. Regional organizations such as the African Union and IGAD have endeavored to devise a comprehensive peace plan; however, entrenched distrust among the factions has thwarted these initiatives. The standoff continues as neither side achieves a decisive upper hand.
Türkiye has stepped up its mediation efforts, exemplified by Deputy Foreign Minister Burhanettin Duran’s official visit to Port Sudan on January 4, 2025. Türkiye’s proactive approach employs humanitarian diplomacy, economic cooperation, and confidence-building measures to address the ongoing conflict.
Türkiye enjoys several advantages that could facilitate its mediation role. Firstly, its historical connections and humanitarian aid efforts in Sudan have earned it a favorable standing among Sudanese citizens. Secondly, Türkiye’s improved relations with the UAE could provide avenues for dialogue between the SAF and RSF. Thirdly, its collaborations with organizations like the African Union and IGAD could lend credibility to its mediation endeavors.
Nonetheless, Türkiye faces significant challenges, including the UAE’s partisanship towards the RSF, which might cast doubt over Türkiye’s neutrality in the eyes of the SAF. Furthermore, deep-seated mistrust within Sudan, compounded by the diverse interests of global actors including the U.S., Russia, China, and Iran, constrains Türkiye’s diplomatic efforts. Thus, devising practical strategies such as confidence-building measures, temporary cease-fires, and resource-sharing agreements will be vital for advancing Türkiye’s mediation initiative.
The civil war, ignited in Sudan on April 15, 2023, has evolved into a crisis impacting not only Sudanese citizens but the entire region. The confluence of humanitarian devastation and geopolitical tensions complicates efforts to resolve the conflict.
In conclusion, Türkiye’s mediation initiative represents a pivotal opportunity for achieving regional stability and expanding its diplomatic influence across Africa. The success of this initiative will depend on Türkiye’s adherence to impartiality, the establishment of trust between the conflicting parties, and effective partnerships with regional and international stakeholders. A thoughtfully executed, multifaceted approach will be essential for Türkiye to play a meaningful role in resolving the Sudanese crisis and possibly serve as a template for similar conflicts in the future. Each step must be meticulously planned and executed to sustain hope for peace among the Sudanese populace.
In summary, the ongoing civil war in Sudan presents severe humanitarian and political challenges, complicating efforts for resolution. Türkiye’s mediation initiative holds the potential to foster regional stability while enhancing its diplomatic presence. The success of this initiative is contingent upon impartiality, trust-building between factions, and effective collaboration with regional actors. Through a meticulously crafted and executed strategy, Türkiye may indeed pave the way for peace and address similar crises in the region.
Original Source: www.dailysabah.com
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