Sudan's Rapid Support Forces (RSF) announced on Thursday its acceptance of a humanitarian ceasefire proposal led by the United States and involving Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates.
The paramilitary group stated that it aims to address the catastrophic humanitarian consequences of the war and enhance civilian protection.
This development follows more than two years of intense fighting with the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), which has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths, widespread hunger, and the displacement of millions.
The RSF expressed eagerness to end the conflict and openness to discussions on a cessation of hostilities and the political process.
The proposal calls for an initial three-month humanitarian truce, potentially paving the way for a lasting political solution, including the establishment of a new civilian government.
Earlier this week, U.S. senior adviser Massad Boulos noted that both sides had agreed in principle, with focus now on final details.
A U.S. State Department spokesperson urged both parties to advance the effort, emphasizing the urgency of de-escalating violence and alleviating civilian suffering.
However, the SAF has not yet responded to the announcement.
Army officials have expressed skepticism about reintegrating RSF members into society and previously demanded the group's withdrawal from occupied cities.
Army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan stated on Thursday that his forces are striving for the enemy's defeat and vowed to avenge attacks on civilians.
Influential leaders within the army have voiced disapproval of the proposal during recent meetings.
The SAF has also opposed the United Arab Emirates' involvement in truce talks.
The announcement coincides with heightened international concern over atrocities in Darfur following the RSF's seizure of el-Fasher on October 26 after an 18-month siege.
More than 70,000 people have fled the city and surrounding areas since the takeover, according to the United Nations.
Witnesses and human rights groups have reported summary executions, sexual violence, and mass killings of civilians.
The World Health Organization documented the tragic killing of more than 460 patients and medical staff at a former children's hospital during the assault.
A Yale University report released Thursday revealed satellite imagery showing activity consistent with mass graves at a mosque, the former Children's Hospital, and Al-Saudi Hospital.
The imagery indicated earth disturbances, trenches, and the removal of body clusters near these sites.
The war, which erupted in April 2023 between the SAF and RSF — once partners in power over integration disputes — has drawn accusations of war crimes against both sides.
A September UN Human Rights Council report cited extrajudicial killings, large-scale civilian attacks, torture, and an overwhelming volume of sexual violence evidence primarily by RSF and SAF members.
The RSF now controls much of western Darfur and southern regions, while the SAF holds the north, east, central areas along the Nile and Red Sea.
Previous ceasefire attempts have failed despite agreements in principle.
The RSF's leader has called on fighters to protect civilians and prosecute violations.