Recent developments in Sudan, particularly its renewed diplomatic ties with Iran and alleged military cooperation, have raised concerns in Washington, prompting a flurry of diplomatic activity between the United States and regional partners.
US Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, Molly Phee, led a high-level delegation to Ethiopia this week, where they engaged in discussions with Sudanese stakeholders and regional leaders on the sidelines of the African Union summit.
Sudan officially reinstated diplomatic relations with Iran in October 2023, marking a significant shift in its foreign policy. However, recent footage from the conflict in Sudan suggests ongoing ties between the Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) and Iran, despite the severance of relations in 2016.
The Sudanese military’s alleged use of drones from Iran has drawn particular attention from US officials, who view external support to Sudanese forces as exacerbating the conflict and hindering efforts for a negotiated resolution.
US Ambassador to Sudan, John Godfrey, expressed deep concern over reports of Iranian material support to Sudan’s military, emphasizing the need to refrain from providing arms to belligerent parties and urging for a halt to the flow of external support prolonging the conflict.
The United States has been actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to address the Sudanese crisis, with Assistant Secretary Phee meeting with regional leaders including Presidents Felix Tshisekedi, Paul Kagame, and Hakainde Hichilema to discuss ways to defuse the situation.
US Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa, Mike Hammer, called for a meeting between the warring factions to resolve the dispute, emphasizing the urgent need for humanitarian assistance to reach millions of Sudanese facing acute food insecurity.
In response to the escalating crisis, the African Union has appointed a high-level panel on Sudan, comprising eminent African personalities tasked with promoting peace and stability in the region.
As the conflict in Sudan continues to unfold, international efforts are intensifying to address the root causes of the crisis and facilitate a peaceful resolution through dialogue and humanitarian intervention.