Washington: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Friday called for an urgent humanitarian ceasefire in Sudan during a phone conversation with United Arab Emirates Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed. The discussion comes amid mounting concerns over foreign support to Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the escalating humanitarian crisis in the country.
According to State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott, Rubio emphasized the critical need to halt violence and ensure civilian protection. Secretary Rubio stressed the importance of achieving a humanitarian ceasefire in Sudan and coordinating international efforts to reduce the human toll of the conflict, Pigott said. The call also included discussion of the US-backed ceasefire in Gaza, highlighting Washington’s continued engagement in the region to maintain stability.
Sudan has been gripped by a violent civil war between the national army and the RSF, a paramilitary force that has captured several key cities, including al-Fashir, after prolonged sieges. The UN Human Rights Council on Friday announced an investigation into alleged atrocities committed by the RSF during its recent operations. Thousands of civilians have been displaced, and the conflict has severely disrupted humanitarian aid delivery.
The Sudanese army has repeatedly accused the UAE of providing weapons and mercenaries to the RSF, allegations Abu Dhabi has denied. Rubio had earlier stated that the United States was aware of countries supplying arms to the RSF and that curbing such support was essential to preventing further advances by the paramilitary group. “Something needs to be done to cut off the weapons and support that the RSF is getting as they continue with their advances,” Rubio said, without naming any specific country.
Rubio’s conversation with the UAE reflects US efforts to leverage its diplomatic ties with key Arab states that maintain relations with both Israel and the United States. Analysts suggest the call underscores Washington’s concern over foreign interference exacerbating Sudan’s conflict and the urgent need for regional coordination to restore peace.
The United States has consistently stressed that unchecked external support to armed groups in Sudan could further destabilize the region, deepen the humanitarian crisis, and complicate efforts to reach a ceasefire. With international pressure mounting, diplomats and human rights organizations are calling for immediate measures to ensure compliance with UN sanctions and prevent further violence against civilians.
Rubio’s outreach to the UAE comes at a critical time when global attention is focused on Sudan, as foreign governments and humanitarian agencies scramble to deliver aid, evacuate civilians, and prevent further escalation. The US continues to advocate for a comprehensive, enforceable ceasefire that would allow humanitarian assistance to reach those affected while limiting foreign involvement that fuels the conflict.