In a clear sign of their seriousness to end the escalating conflict in Sudan, four East African states, led by Kenya, are pushing for the deployment of a regional force to protect civilians and ensure that humanitarian aid reaches millions of people trapped in the war zone.
But getting the agreement of the warring factions will be a tough call, as they have shown no interest in anything other than military victory since the conflict broke out in mid-April.
The military, headed by Gen Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, controls most of eastern and central Sudan, and is fighting to hold on to its bases in the capital, Khartoum.
The rival Rapid Support Forces (RSF), led by Gen Mohamed Hamdan Dagolo, known as “Hemedti”, has made advances in Khartoum.
The military bombs RSF positions relentlessly in the capital, reportedly causing widespread civilian casualties.
