This week, Sudan’s army chief absent from peace talks, while RSF presence remains unclear. A new round of Gaza peace talks begin in Doha. Bangladesh’s interim government vows to resolve “heinous” violence against Hindus.
Sudan army chief absent from peace talks, RSF presence unclear
The first day of U.S.-led peace talks in Geneva aimed at resolving Sudan’s severe conflict ended with key players absent. Sudanese army chief General Abdul-Fattah Burhan did not participate, and it was unclear if delegates from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) attended. The conflict, which began in April last year, has led to a major humanitarian crisis with millions displaced. Experts from the Famine Review Committee warned last month that about 25.6 million people, over half of Sudan’s population, would face acute hunger.
Gen. Burhan has demanded that the RSF cease occupying civilian areas before discussing a cease-fire. RSF representatives did not appear in photos, however, the RSF said Tuesday that the paramilitary force’s delegation had arrived in Switzerland. The BBC reported that RSF delegates went to Switzerland, but at the last minute said they would stay away.
This news comes after US Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke to Gen. Burhan on the phone last week, urging him to attend the talks.
A new round of Gaza peace talks begins in Doha
Fresh peace talks have begun in Doha, aiming to address the ongoing Gaza conflict, with officials from the US, Qatar, and Egypt meeting with an Israeli delegation. The talks follow recent escalations, including the assassinations of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh and a Hezbollah commander, which Iran has indicated may lead to retaliation against Israel unless a ceasefire is achieved.
The death toll in Gaza has surpassed 40,000, according to local health authorities, amid continued Israeli airstrikes and military operations. Despite a general agreement on a ceasefire plan proposed by President Joe Biden, discussions are stalled over specifics, such as the presence of Israeli troops on the Gaza-Egypt border, the conditions for a hostage release, and the return of civilians from southern to northern Gaza. Hamas has opted not to participate directly in the talks, citing concerns over the Israeli government’s commitment to ending “aggression.”
Efforts to secure a ceasefire are seen as crucial to preventing a broader regional conflict. Meanwhile, Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas has pledged to visit Gaza, though logistical challenges remain due to Israeli control of border crossings. The ongoing violence continues to devastate the Gaza Strip, prompting calls for urgent action to protect civilians and stabilize the region.
Bangladesh interim government vows to resolve ‘heinous’ violence against Hindus
Bangladesh’s interim leader, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has condemned recent attacks against Hindus as “heinous” and promised to address it urgently. Yunus has called on students and citizens to protect all minorities and ensure their safety. The UN has also highlighted the need for action to safeguard minority groups.
The recent violence targeting Hindus has sparked widespread protests and international concern. Following the resignation and departure of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on August 5, there has been a surge in attacks against Hindus, with over 100 Hindus and other minorities reportedly killed since the fall of the previous government. Protesters in Chittagong and other cities have demanded protection for their lives, property, and religious sites, chanting slogans affirming their commitment to Bangladesh and calling for justice.
The interim administration has vowed to immediately work with concerned groups and bodies in order to find ways to resolve the violence, which includes attacks on homes, temples, and businesses. As part of its priorities, the new government says it will also focus on democratic reforms and restoring public services disrupted by recent unrest.
“This Week in Peace” will be taking a short hiatus next week, but will return the following week.
Tara Abhasakun
Tara Abhasakun is a journalist in Bangkok. She has reported on a range of human rights issues involving youth protests in Thailand, as well as arts and culture. Tara's work has appeared in several outlets, including Al Jazeera and South China Morning Post.
