Washington: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio affirmed on Friday that Washington is exerting strenuous efforts to reach a humanitarian truce in Sudan, early January, that allows humanitarian organizations to urgently offer aid to civilians. Speaking to reporters in a news conference, Rubio emphasized the immediate need for a cessation of hostilities, highlighting the dire situation faced by civilians. According to Kuwait News Agency, Rubio stated, "The immediate goal we have is a cessation of hostilities, a humanitarian truce going into the New Year that allows humanitarian organizations to be able to deliver aid to the people in great distress." He noted the involvement of external supporters for both the South and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), expressing concerns over countries aiding the RSF with transshipment and advanced weaponry. Rubio further elaborated on the obstacles faced by humanitarian efforts, mentioning reports of convoys being attacked en route. He stressed the urgency of addressing these attacks, describing the situation as "horrifying" and "atrocious." Rubio warned that the full story of the conflict in Sudan would eventually come to light, potentially tarnishing those involved. He underscored the US's role in facilitating dialogue between conflicting parties. Highlighting the challenges in the peace process, Rubio expressed frustration over unfulfilled commitments by conflicting sides. He conveyed hope that the truce would allow focus on resolving deeper issues that have fueled the conflict, aiming for a more comprehensive resolution.
