Outgoing US Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed deep regret over his administration’s inability to bring an end to the ongoing conflict in Sudan. Speaking during a farewell news conference on Thursday, Blinken reflected on the unresolved challenges and voiced hope that President-elect Donald Trump’s administration would continue efforts to address the crisis.
“It is for me, yes, another real regret that when it comes to Sudan, we haven’t been able on our watch to get to that day of success,” Blinken remarked, acknowledging the gravity of the situation. Despite some progress in facilitating humanitarian aid through diplomatic efforts, he noted that the war has not ceased, and the suffering of the Sudanese people remains dire.
The conflict in Sudan, which began in April 2023, has pitted the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) against the Sudanese army. The violence has devastated the nation, leading to widespread abuses, civilian casualties, and displacement. Blinken, who recently determined that the RSF had committed acts of genocide, also accused Sudan’s army of perpetrating war crimes.
“The army has also committed war crimes, and it continues to target civilians,” Blinken stated. He criticized the military’s refusal to engage in ceasefire negotiations, which have repeatedly failed to halt the violence.
The outgoing Secretary of State emphasized that while some strides had been made in improving humanitarian access, the larger goal of ending the conflict remained unmet. “We’ll keep working at it for the next three days, and I hope the next administration will take that on as well,” he added, signaling the urgency of continued international engagement.
Sudan’s conflict has drawn widespread condemnation from the global community, with calls for accountability for atrocities committed by both the RSF and the Sudanese army. Humanitarian organizations have faced significant obstacles in delivering aid to affected regions, further exacerbating the crisis.
As Blinken prepares to leave office, his reflections underscore the complexities of international diplomacy in conflict zones and the challenges of securing lasting peace. The responsibility now shifts to the incoming administration to prioritize Sudan and intensify efforts to mediate between warring factions.
Blinken’s tenure may be ending, but his acknowledgment of unfinished work in Sudan serves as a reminder of the immense human cost of war and the critical need for sustained diplomatic resolve to address one of the world’s most pressing humanitarian crises.
