Sudan’s Transitional Sovereignty Council Chairman and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, has issued a stern warning to neighboring countries, urging them to refrain from interfering in Sudan’s ongoing internal conflict. Speaking to members of the Sudanese diaspora in Ankara, al-Burhan emphasized that Sudan seeks peace but will firmly defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity against any external influence.
The Sudanese leader stressed that Sudan has not initiated hostilities against any of its neighbors, nor does it aim to provoke regional confrontation. However, he made it clear that Sudan will respond decisively to threats against its borders or sovereignty, signaling a shift toward a more assertive diplomatic and military posture. Al-Burhan’s message comes amid rising concerns that neighboring countries could be involved indirectly in the ongoing conflict between Sudan’s military and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
The RSF, a powerful paramilitary group, has been at the center of Sudan’s violent power struggle, particularly in the Blue Nile region. Government authorities allege that certain external actors have been providing support to the RSF, including arms and logistical aid, raising fears of a broader regional destabilization. While specific countries have been accused of facilitating these transfers, officials insist Sudan remains committed to dialogue, even as it asserts its right to self-defense.
In his address, al-Burhan also announced that Sudan no longer recognizes the previous “Quad” diplomatic framework, a mediation effort involving the United States, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). According to al-Burhan, the Quad framework has not achieved tangible results and, in some cases, may have inadvertently contributed to prolonging the conflict. Sudan’s government has instead called for direct diplomatic engagement to resolve tensions and ensure that external involvement does not exacerbate the crisis.
Al-Burhan recounted a recent phone conversation with UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, emphasizing that while concerns regarding the conflict were previously raised, the situation has not improved. In his view, the UAE’s earlier assurances have failed to materialize into meaningful action, prompting Sudan to reconsider the role of external actors in its peace process. Despite these setbacks, al-Burhan expressed confidence in the ongoing mediation efforts led by Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the United States, highlighting the importance of regional cooperation to achieve lasting peace.
In a significant diplomatic development, Sudan has also requested Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s involvement in facilitating dialogue between the warring parties. Al-Burhan underscored that Turkey’s participation could provide neutral ground for negotiations, helping Sudanese stakeholders reach a mutually acceptable solution and advance the country’s transition toward stability.
Central to Sudan’s peace strategy is a government-backed proposal originally tabled by Prime Minister Kamil Idris. This plan calls for the disarmament and withdrawal of RSF fighters from conflict zones, the establishment of designated assembly points, and the accountability of individuals responsible for wartime abuses. The proposal also emphasizes inclusive political dialogue, aiming to create a broad-based consensus on Sudan’s governance and the country’s future political structure.
Al-Burhan made it clear that while Sudan remains open to dialogue and peaceful resolution, the government will not tolerate any external interference that could compromise national sovereignty. He emphasized that Sudanese forces are fully capable of defending the country and maintaining order, even as diplomatic channels remain active. This dual approach assertive defense coupled with proactive diplomacy is intended to reassure both the Sudanese population and the international community that the government is committed to a sustainable resolution.
Experts note that Sudan’s current strategy reflects a delicate balance between asserting national sovereignty and engaging in regional diplomacy. By directly addressing concerns over foreign meddling, al-Burhan aims to prevent the conflict from escalating into a broader regional crisis. His statements also serve as a warning to external actors that Sudan will pursue its national interests, while still seeking constructive dialogue to restore peace and stability.
As Sudan continues to navigate its complex internal conflict, the international community is closely monitoring developments. The country faces significant challenges, including restoring security in conflict-affected areas, addressing humanitarian needs, and ensuring that political solutions are inclusive and sustainable. General al-Burhan’s remarks underscore Sudan’s determination to protect its sovereignty while pursuing diplomatic avenues to end the violence.
